Kathmandu: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has recommended that five office-bearers of the Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) step down from governance and be barred from contesting upcoming elections.

The officials named in the decision include NRCS President Professor Sudarshan Prasad Nepal, along with Binod Kumar Basnet, Manoj Kumar Thapa, Bhupati Lal Shrestha, and Narayan Timilsena.

A press release issued by the IFRC Headquarters in Geneva stated that these individuals were found to have engaged in political activities, violating the Red Cross and Red Crescent’s principles of Neutrality and Independence. The IFRC emphasized that all staff and volunteers worldwide are required to uphold these fundamental values.

The Compliance and Mediation Committee (CMC) is continuing to review available information, and more individuals may be asked to step down.

In response to ongoing disputes within NRCS regarding constitutional reforms and elections, the CMC has also recommended sanctions against NRCS, which will be discussed at the IFRC Governing Board meeting in June 2025. Possible measures include the termination of financial support to NRCS.

The IFRC expressed regret over having to take such steps, stating that it had spent years mediating internal conflicts within NRCS but was forced to act due to ongoing allegations of misconduct.

Additionally, the CMC has formally requested the Government of Nepal to establish a non-political, independent interim committee to oversee the NRCS.

Despite potential sanctions, the IFRC assured that it remains committed to supporting Nepalese volunteers and humanitarian efforts, ensuring that disaster response and public health initiatives continue to receive assistance.