Shakeup in Nepali government as DRI director general transferred to MoFA

KATHMANDU: In a surprising move, Nawa Raj Dhungana, the Director General of the Department of Revenue Investigation (DRI), has been reassigned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). Taking his place at the helm of the DRI is Chakra Bahadur Budha, who was recently transferred from the Department of Tourism to the Prime Minister’s Office.

Dhungana’s transfer comes amidst speculation about a reshuffle within the government, with sources indicating that he is slated to become the Consul General of the Consulate General of Nepal in Kolkata. This move is seen as a significant shift in responsibilities for Dhungana, who rose to prominence during his tenure at the DRI.

During his time as Director General, Dhungana garnered attention for leading high-profile seizures, including 61 kg of smuggled gold. However, his handling of a tax evasion case involving the American company Cotiviti drew criticism from the private sector, raising doubts about his expertise in revenue matters.

Despite these challenges, Dhungana’s appointment as Consul General underscores the government’s confidence in his diplomatic abilities. Meanwhile, Budha’s elevation to the role of DRI Director General marks a new chapter for the department, with expectations running high for his leadership.

As the government implements these changes, all eyes are now on the upcoming transition and the impact it will have on both the DRI and Nepal’s diplomatic relations. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.