Jigyan Kumar Thapa has officially withdrawn his candidacy for the position of Ambassador to Japan.
Thapa notified the Parliamentary Hearing Committee of his decision after being questioned during the review process.
He stated in his withdrawal letter,
“Public service can be performed in various ways. I am committed to fulfilling any responsibility assigned by the Government of Nepal to support our country’s development and well-being.”
Concerns were raised about his permanent residency status in Japan during the review on October 14.
Thapa clarified that he had renounced his Japanese permanent residency, but lawmakers requested more information regarding the timeline and constitutional details (Article 291).
This prompted the committee to delay further investigation, and they will seek additional information through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
There were also worries about potential conflicts of interest due to connections between the nominee and their family.
Although Thapa asserted there were no legal barriers to his appointment, questions about his eligibility emerged.
He was among thirteen candidates recommended by the Government for ambassadorial positions.
During the hearings on October 14, ten nominees were approved, while Giribahadur Sunar (Saudi Arabia) and Chudamani Kharel (Malaysia) were rejected.
Following concerns about Thapa’s residency, his candidacy was placed on hold.
With Thapa’s official withdrawal, the committee will no longer need to complete the approval process for his nomination as Ambassador to Japan.
This decision reflects broader concerns regarding ambassadorial appointments.