Property Inquiry Commission will not interfere with CIAA: Wagle

KATHMANDU: Minister for Finance Swarnim Wagle has insisted that the Property Inquiry Commission formed by the government will not interfere with the work of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), which functions as a constitutional anti-graft body.

Responding on behalf of Prime Minister Balendra Shah to questions raised during the clause-wise discussion on the Appropriation Bill, 2026, in the House of Representatives on Thursday, Wagle said the commission was formed to address public demands for an end to corruption and the establishment of good governance, as well as to fulfill the commitment made by the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) to voters during the election campaign.

“This commission is not a permanent body tasked with conducting asset investigations and inquiries. It has been established to examine the assets of designated public officials,” he said. “If it finds that any assets have been acquired illegally, it will recommend to the government to take necessary action as per the existing laws.”

Wagle said the government believes the commission will reinforce the principle that public officials, regardless of rank or position, can have their assets scrutinized if they are suspected of acquiring wealth unlawfully. “This will discourage the misuse of office and authority for personal enrichment through illegal means,” he added.