KATHMANDU, Dec 14: CPN (Maoist Center) leader Haribol Gajurel has submitted his resignation as the Chief Political Advisor to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, citing political disagreements. The resignation, effective December 6, came amid reported differences on policy matters.
In a brief conversation with Republica, Gajurel stated, "I resigned due to disagreements on policy issues. My inner instinct guided me not to continue in the Prime Minister's Secretariat." He highlighted concerns over the management of the office, stating, "PM Dahal’s daughter, Ganga Dahal, is more engaged here than Prime Minister Dahal himself. She is actively involved in organizing meetings and managing the prime minister's schedule."
Gajurel, who also serves as the deputy general secretary of the party, expressed discontent with the lack of coordination within the PM’s Secretariat. Despite being the senior-most member, he claimed that crucial matters were handled without informing him. A member of the Secretariat suggested, "One of the reasons for Gajurel's resignation is Ganga's disregard for coordination within the secretariat, treating others poorly and creating an atmosphere where he could not morally stay."
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Allegations have surfaced regarding Ganga Dahal and her husband Jeevan Acharya interfering in PM’s Secretariat affairs, including employee transfers, promotions, and policy decisions. Sources suggest that employees and security officers at Singha Durbar have to seek Ganga Dahal's permission to meet the Prime Minister, raising concerns about undue influence.
Gajurel clarified that his resignation is not a result of disagreements with Secretariat members but stems from policy differences. He noted, "Sometimes there are disagreements, which is normal. My resignation is not aimed at that. It's a policy-related disagreement." Sources claim that members of the Secretariat are compelled to follow Ganga's directives, regardless of their positions.
Amid speculations about Gajurel becoming a member of the National Assembly, he firmly denied such possibilities. "I resigned over a specific issue. Rumors about joining the National Assembly are attempts to divert attention and mislead. I declined the Speaker's position in the previous House of Representatives. False propaganda is circulating," stated Gajurel.
He emphasized that his resignation was prompted by a genuine concern for addressing the raised issues. "During my tenure as the Prime Minister's advisor, I worked with integrity. I have no intention of becoming a National Assembly member. The rumors are meant to divert attention from the resignation," he asserted. Gajurel urged addressing the underlying concerns rather than focusing on unsubstantiated rumors.
