Kathmandu: Chief Commissioner of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), Prem Kumar Rai, has accused the government of failing to take necessary steps to recover assets acquired through corruption and hidden in foreign countries such as Singapore, the United States, and European nations.

Speaking during a meeting of the Federalism Strengthening and National Concerns Committee under the National Assembly on Tuesday, Chief Commissioner Rai expressed frustration over the government's lack of initiative, despite foreign governments being open to cooperating on the issue. “Even though the other side has agreed to return the funds, our government has shown no willingness to act,” he said.

Rai emphasized that despite the formation of a task force to address the matter, meaningful progress has yet to be made. He urged lawmakers to take concrete steps to bring back the misappropriated money stashed abroad.

On the issue of domestic corruption, Rai stated that the CIAA has conducted investigations against individuals with significant influence and involvement in corruption, particularly in the information technology sector. He dismissed claims that only lower-level employees are being targeted, arguing that investigations have reached those with deeper connections, though evidence collection remains a challenge. “Employees are reluctant to name their superiors, making it difficult to prosecute high-level figures,” he said.

Rai also claimed that since taking office, he has not faced any political pressure to pursue or drop cases. However, he acknowledged that such interference may have existed in the past.

Highlighting the growing international dimension of corruption, he said, “Corruption is no longer confined within our borders. The involvement of non-resident citizens in corruption has increased significantly.”

Rai concluded by appealing for greater cooperation from the government and lawmakers to enhance good governance and hold all levels of corruption accountable—both at home and abroad.