I request the EU to think again, Nepal is a sovereign country: PM Oli

KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli called out on the European Union Election Observation Mission to respect Nepal's status as a sovereign nation.

At the launching ceremony of the National Election Observation Commitee's observation report at Hotel Annapurna in Durbarmarg, PM Oli said that the recent election observation report submitted by the EUEOM undermines Nepal's sovereignty and the success of the recently held elections.

He further warned any such elements taking a dig at our achievements to not do so. "We expected the mission to rectify their report but they in turn took an even stubborn stand," the PM said.

"I feel, as a nation, we have been put down and humiliated. I would like to request the EU to think again seriously on this matter. Nepal is a sovereign country," Oli stressed.

Prime Minister Oli went on to blame that the report is a vengeful act, a response to Nepal returning a few people who were here to preach about their religion in the name of observation.On March 20, the EUEOM had submitted an observation report to the Election Commission.

Timeline:

  • March 20: EUEOM submits final report to the Election Commission, questions proportional representation election quota to the Khas-Aryas, non-representation of Christians, among other 'interfering' comments.

  • March 21: Ministry of Foreign Affairs releases a statement, says EUEOM's report challenges constitutional provisions and condemns it

  • March 22: Election Commission rejects mission's comments, says it violated MoU and Code of Conduct.

  • March 22: EUEOM defends its recommendations, says it has followed ToR and MoU.

  • March 25: PM asks EU to mend its ways, respect Nepal's authority as a sovereign state.