Kathmandu, September 9
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane has acknowledged that funds from a cooperative were misappropriated by Gorkha Media, an institution he is associated with. However, Lamichhane firmly denied any personal involvement in the misuse of funds.
Speaking to reporters at Dhangadhi Airport, Lamichhane stated, “It has been established that cooperative funds were improperly channelled to Gorkha Media and other related institutions.”
Despite the acknowledgement, Lamichhane distanced himself from the controversy, emphasising that his association with Gorkha Media does not automatically implicate him in the wrongdoing. “Just because I am linked to Gorkha Media, it does not mean I should be held responsible for misconduct committed by others,” he said.
He further cited the police investigation, which he claimed had already identified the individuals responsible for the malpractice. “For me to be held accountable, there would have to be evidence that I personally benefited from the misuse,” Lamichhane remarked.
Lamichhane also expressed hope that the parliamentary investigation committee would focus on resolving the issue, highlighting the widespread impact of cooperative-related scandals. “Millions of people have suffered due to these cooperative malpractices, and I trust that this investigation will lead to a solution,” he added.
