HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER DEVELOPMENTS IN NEPAL

1 February 2005


I have learned with serious concern of the decision taken today by King Gyanendra of Nepal to dismiss the Government of Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and to assume direct power. I also understand that a state of emergency has been declared, and that the members of the cabinet are under house arrest.

Nepal is already in the midst of a human rights crisis, which has been compounded in recent years by the absence of a parliament and a democratically elected Government. Democracy offers the most conducive environment for the promotion and protection of human rights in any country. In his Proclamation to the Nation yesterday, King Gyanendra emphasized his “belief that upholding human rights not only preserves and promotes democratic values but also enhances the way of life and civilisational values commensurate with the twenty-first century”. When I met the King during my visit to Nepal last week, he reaffirmed his unequivocal commitment to human rights, democracy and multiparty rule. Along with all other friends of Nepal I now look to His Majesty to live up to his stated commitment to these fundamental principles, and ensure that the democratic institutions of the State are reinstalled without delay. Nepal’s vibrant civil society, especially its human rights defenders and media, play a crucial role in the country’s quest for democracy. Their ability to continue their indispensable work, freely and safely, must be ensured.

Finally I wish to recall that Nepal is a party to all key human rights instruments, and is as such obliged to ensure the enjoyment of the rights contained therein by its people. The core of these human rights cannot be suspended under any circumstances, not even during a state of emergency.