In the Buddha’s birthplace, a famous nun’s appointment draws fire
Summary
Ani Choying Drolma’s appointment as vice-chair of the Lumbini Development Trust has sparked protests over alleged money laundering and questions about her citizenship. Supporters say the controversy has already been resolved, while critics demand the government revoke the decision.
Key Points
- The Cabinet appointed singer-nun Ani Choying Drolma as vice-chair of the Lumbini Development Trust, filling a post that had been vacant for nearly five months.
- A protest campaign launched by Save Lumbini Grand Campaign says the appointment ignores local qualified people and raises unresolved questions about her citizenship and finances.
- Critics cite a 2018 money-laundering probe linked to nearly $1.65 million deposited from Hong Kong, while Drolma says the matter has already been settled.
- Drolma says she will take up the post in Lumbini, and supporters argue her decades of work in Buddhism, education and humanitarian service justify the appointment.
