Kulman Ghising, the managing director of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), has said that the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation does not have the authority to demand an explanation from him.

Questioning the ministry’s dissatisfaction with his previous clarification, Ghising asked, “Why was the earlier explanation deemed unsatisfactory, and to what extent?” He argued that since the demand for clarification lacked a clear basis or reason, there was no scope for him to provide further justification.

Furthermore, Ghising brushed off all allegations levelled against him.

“The progress index since my appointment reflects all achievements. Therefore, repeatedly demanding clarification by claiming that my unsatisfactory responses go against the established principles of law and justice,” he said in his explanation.

On Tuesday, Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Minister Dipak Khadka asked for a fresh 24-hour explanation from Ghising, questioning why he should not be removed from his position despite ongoing criticism.

Khadka’s latest directive requires Ghising to provide a detailed response within 24 hours, particularly focusing on the Nepal-India bilateral electricity exchange agreement. Khadka raised concerns over authority to enter into such agreements, and questioned how Ghising gained the power to sign such an agreement without the approval of relevant ministries. Further, the minister sought clarification on the financial responsibility tied to this deal.

This new demand for clarification is not the first time Minister Khadka has sought answers from Ghising. In January, Khadka sent a nine-point request for an explanation, to which Ghising responded on January 12. However, Khadka said Ghising’s previous explanation was unsatisfactory.

The confrontation between Minister Khadka and Ghising has grown more intense over the past few months, with both sides accusing each other of inefficiency and poor management. While Khadka has been a sharp critic of Ghising, the latter’s successful tenure—marked by a significant reduction in the country's load-shedding and the revival of the NEA, which had been on the brink of collapse—has earned him widespread public support.