Gagan Thapa is a prominent Nepali politician and a senior leader of the Nepali Congress (NC) party. He has served as a Member of Parliament (MP) multiple times and was Minister for Health and Population from 2016 to 2017. Known for his outspoken nature and progressive stance, Thapa is considered a potential future leader of the Nepali Congress and even a possible Prime Ministerial candidate.
He is popular among Nepal’s youth due to his strong speeches, focus on good governance, democracy, and economic reforms, and his critical stance against corruption.
Controversies & Corruption Allegations
Although Gagan Thapa is seen as a reformist within the Nepali Congress, he has not been free from controversies. Some key allegations and criticisms include:
- Involvement in the Wide-Body Aircraft Scandal
- His name was linked to the controversial Wide-Body Aircraft purchase scandal involving the procurement of two Airbus A330s for Nepal Airlines. However, there has been no solid legal action against him.
- Medical Sector Corruption
- During his tenure as Health Minister, there were allegations of favoritism in hospital tenders and medical equipment procurement. His supporters argue that these were politically motivated accusations.
- Association with Business Interests
- Some accuse him of being close to certain business houses, using his political influence to protect their interests.
- Internal Nepali Congress Conflicts
- Thapa has been vocal against the older establishment faction of Nepali Congress, often clashing with leaders like Sher Bahadur Deuba.
- He was part of the faction that pushed for internal party reforms, leading to power struggles.