Ani Choying’s new role brings old controversies to the fore
Summary
Ani Choying Drolma’s appointment as vice-chair of the Lumbini Development Trust has reignited scrutiny over her citizenship and an unfinished money-laundering probe. Protests have erupted in Kathmandu and Lumbini, with demonstrators demanding that her appointment be revoked.
Key Points
- The Cabinet appointed Buddhist nun and singer Ani Choying Drolma as vice-chair of the Lumbini Development Trust, prompting fresh controversy over unresolved citizenship and money-laundering questions.
- Authorities say the citizenship inquiry stalled and the financial investigation into suspicious deposits in her account was never formally concluded.
- Protests have intensified in Kathmandu and Lumbini, and police arrested two Save Lumbini Campaign coordinators in Rupandehi.
- Drolma has denied wrongdoing, saying the allegations are meant to defame her and insisting she is innocent.
