President Paudel: Abuse of Authority Threatens Democracy and Public Trust

President Ram Chandra Paudel has said that abuse of authority is not a small mistake, but a serious threat to the country’s system, justice and public trust.

Speaking at a special programme held in Kathmandu on Wednesday to mark the 35th Establishment Day of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), President Paudel said the CIAA must work strongly and effectively to ensure good governance.

He said state bodies must work in such a way that people feel confident that no one can escape legal action just because they have power or a high position.

“Abuse of authority is not only breaking the law, but also a serious attack on people’s trust, hope and future. It breaks the relationship of trust between the state and the citizens,” the President said.

He warned that when public power is used for personal benefit, both citizens’ trust in the state and the state’s trust in citizens become weak. He said this creates doubt in the rule of law, reduces faith in the justice system, and harms the values of democracy.

President Paudel said corruption can be eliminated if greed for power, position and wealth is controlled. He added that corruption can be prevented when honesty, integrity, fairness, transparency and courage are followed in public service.

Calling for reforms, he said improvements are needed in policies, working methods, technology and public attitudes. He also stressed the need to promote discipline and ethical behaviour in institutions.

The President said that the main goals of the Constitution are good governance, easy and effective public service delivery, and proper implementation of constitutional provisions. He said people have raised these demands again and again.

He also said the recent youth movement reflects these public hopes and urged authorities not to ignore the voices of young people.

President Paudel said fighting corruption is not the duty of only one institution. He said it is the shared responsibility of all state bodies, political leaders, government employees and civil society. He added that real progress is possible only when everyone works together with strong commitment.

“The fight against abuse of authority is a fight for justice, equality and good governance. Through this struggle, we can rebuild public trust, strengthen democracy and provide a clean, capable and reliable state to future generations,” he said.

He also said strong political will is the most important requirement to control corruption. He expressed hope that if political leaders improve their working culture, it will also encourage honesty and accountability within the administration.