Som Sapkota :

For more than two decades, the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has served as a bridge between Nepal and its global diaspora. It was built on a shared dream: to unite Nepalis living abroad, preserve our identity, and contribute meaningfully to our homeland. For many of us, NRNA is not just an organization—it’s a symbol of connection, commitment, and collective pride.

But today, that symbol is being tested.

The recent involvement of Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in internal NRNA affairs has raised serious concerns among members and observers worldwide. MoFA recently issued a letter to Nepali diplomatic missions instructing them to coordinate with the newly declared NRNA committee led by Mr. Mahesh Shrestha. On the surface, it may seem administrative. But in reality, it steps far beyond the legal and moral boundaries set by law and tradition.

According to Section 16 of the Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064, MoFA’s role is limited to two key functions: auditing the organization’s financial activities and certifying its constitution. Nowhere does the law authorize MoFA to validate or recognize elected executive committees. There is no legal or historical precedent for this type of political involvement. In fact, from 2003 to 2023, no MoFA letter has ever been issued to recognize any elected NRNA leadership. This sudden shift is not only troubling—it is unjustifiable.

By issuing such a letter and circulating it to diplomatic missions, MoFA has risked damaging its credibility and undermining the independence of NRNA. This move appears to favor one faction over others, and instead of resolving disputes, it deepens divisions. It politicizes what should remain an impartial, democratic civil organization.

We must also be honest with ourselves. NRNA is not immune to challenges. Over time, political influence, backdoor dealings, and organizational shortcomings have created cracks in the foundation. But we cannot fix these issues with more interference. We need accountability, transparency, and a renewed commitment to the values that first inspired this movement.

The actions of MoFA do not support unity. They appear to misuse authority and exploit political ties at a time when neutrality and fairness are most needed. This is not just an overstep—it is a direct threat to the integrity of the institution we have all worked so hard to build.

We must protect NRNA from both internal decay and external manipulation. We must demand that MoFA stay within its legally defined role and allow NRNA to function as the democratic, people-driven organization it was meant to be. Let us not allow political convenience to override institutional integrity.

We want a united NRNA—but not at the cost of fairness, lawfulness, or dignity. Unity built on manipulation is fragile and unsustainable. What we need is unity grounded in transparency, accountability, and respect for democratic processes.

Let us all—NRNA members, supporters, and stakeholders—stand together for an organization that represents all Nepalis abroad with honesty, strength, and pride.