Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Nepal’s ambassadorial nominee for Japan, Jigyan Kumar Thapa, has withdrawn his name from the parliamentary hearing and appointment process.
The decision comes amid concerns over a potential conflict of interest arising from his permanent residency status and financial interests in Japan.
In a letter to the Parliamentary Hearing Committee on Monday, Thapa formally requested the withdrawal of his nomination.
Citing the ongoing debate over a potential conflict of interest stemming from his ties to Japan, Thapa said national interest, moral integrity and transparency must always take precedence over any official position. “Internalizing these principles, I have decided to step aside from the parliamentary hearing process,” he said in the letter.
He added that holding a particular office was not the only way to serve the nation. “I express my commitment to take up any responsibilities assigned by the government in the interest of national development and prosperity in the days ahead,” he said.
Thapa was among 13 ambassadorial nominees recommended by the government. Two other nominees—Giri Bahadur Sunar (Saudi Arabia) and Chudamani Kharel (Malaysia)—were rejected by the Parliamentary Hearing Committee.
