Veteran opposition leader faces money laundering allegations after spending six months abroad for medical treatment
KATHMANDU: Former Nepalese prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba returned to Nepal on Thursday, six months after travelling abroad for medical treatment, as authorities pursue a money laundering investigation against the veteran opposition politician.
Hundreds of supporters gathered along roads leading from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, where the 80-year-old former premier smiled and waved after arriving home.
Police issued an arrest warrant for Deuba in April over alleged money laundering. Deuba, who left Nepal in February, has denied the accusations and described claims surrounding him as part of a conspiracy.
Police spokesperson Abi Narayan Kafle said the Department of Money Laundering Investigation was handling Deuba’s case. Authorities provided security at the airport and during his supporters’ rally because of his status as a former prime minister.
Authorities Also Investigate Deuba’s Wife
Meanwhile, authorities have also issued a warrant for Deuba’s wife, former foreign minister Arzu Rana Deuba.
The investigation comes as Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s government intensifies scrutiny of prominent political figures following its landslide election victory on a platform promising youth-driven political change and greater accountability.
Furthermore, Deuba stepped down as president of the Nepali Congress in January after younger party members pushed for leadership change.
Authorities also briefly arrested former prime minister KP Sharma Oli and former home minister Ramesh Lekhak in March over their alleged roles in suppressing protests in September 2025.
2025 Protests Reshaped Nepal’s Political Landscape
The youth-led protests initially erupted following a temporary social media ban but rapidly expanded amid public anger over corruption and economic difficulties.
Demonstrators eventually attacked government buildings, including parliament, contributing to the government’s collapse.
Protesters also torched Deuba’s residence, where bundles of cash were reportedly discovered. Videos showing attacks against Deuba and his wife subsequently circulated online.
However, Deuba questioned the authenticity of some footage while testifying before an investigative commission.
The commission has since recommended further investigation into money allegedly recovered from Deuba’s residence and other properties.
