Electronic Passport Supply in Uncertainty Amidst Government Disagreement
Summary
The supply of electronic passports in Nepal faces uncertainty due to a disagreement between the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs over continuing with a German contractor amidst allegations of irregularities and ongoing investigations.
Key Points
- Nepal's Department of Passports currently has only 38,000 passports in stock, causing concern over supply continuity.
- There is a disagreement between the Prime Minister's Office and Ministry of Foreign Affairs about whether to continue contract with a German company or find a new supplier.
- The German company involved, linked to allegations of irregularities, asserts readiness to supply and is supported by the German government's letter urging contract continuation.
- The Special Court has ordered bail for defendants including the Department's Director-General in the ongoing investigation related to passport procurement irregularities.
