Culture of Impunity in Nepal Criticized as Elections Begin

By Kristy Tridhavee
Impunity Watch Senior Desk Officer,
Asia

KATHMUNDU, Nepal – UN Commissioner for Human Rights Loise Arbour criticized the culture of impunity in Nepal after the country failed to prosecute killers of a 15-year Nepalese national, Maina Sunuwar. In 2004, Maina Sunuwar was killed after being tortured and raped under army custody.

Government officials said that the army took disciplinary action against the responsible officers through a court marital and brief imprisonment. However, human rights officers have criticized the punishment as insufficient and demanded a civilian trial.

Arbour commented, “[The Maina case] presents a significant opportunity for the government of Nepal to send a signal that the culture of impunity is ending. The successful prosecution of those responsible for her murder will strengthen the rule of law and uphold victims’ rights to a remedy.”

The culture of impunity in Nepal can detrimentally affect the stability of the country. The country has undergone a decade long conflict between the government and Maoists in the region. Arbour added, “Lack of accountability in this and numerous other cases is helping to perpetuate a culture of impunity in Nepal. And there is a danger this could become a barrier to achieving lasting peace.”

The government and Maoists rebels have set April 20th for the national assembly. The assembly is expected to prepare a new constitution and formally end the 240 year old monarchy. The April vote is central to the peace agreement with Maoists because it would admit the former rebels as part of the political mainstream.

However, three ethnic groups from the southern plains of Nepal have threatened to boycott the April vote unless the region is given autonomy. Nearly 26 million Madheshis, almost half of the nation, live in the region. The Madheshis want to become a largely autonomous state and want more power in the central government.

For more information, please see:

Reuters India –Ethnic Groups Threaten to Boycott Nepal Polls – 18 February 2008

The Times of India – End Culture of Impunity in Nepal: UN – 17 February 2008

United Press International – Nepalese Impunity Could Affect Security – 18 February 2008

Author: Impunity Watch Archive