Media Action Nepal condemns intimidation of journalist by Chinese Envoy in Nepal
KATHMANDU/May 29: Media Action Nepal is deeply concerned about the recent intimidation of senior journalist Gajendra Budhathoki by the Chinese envoy in Nepal.
On May 27, Budhathoki, the Chief Editor at Taksar News, wrote a post on X (formerly Twitter) about the interest rate for a loan for the construction of Pokhara International Airport in Nepal. In response, Chen Song, the ambassador of the People’s Republic of China accused Budhathoki of spreading the “worst lie” and demanded clarification with proof on May 28. On May 29, the ambassador further escalated the issue by demanding a formal apology from Budhathoki and those he represents.
Talking to Media Action Nepal Budhathoki expressed that he had not mentioned any country name or people in his writing. ‘I had not mentioned China or any other country name in my post. However, I was threatened in such a way by the Chinese Envoy asking me to furnish a public apology, ‘ he added.
“Such intimidation by a diplomat undermines the fundamental principles of press freedom and the democratic values that Nepal upholds,” commented Laxman Datt Pant, Chairperson of Media Action Nepal. “We strongly urge the Chinese Ambassador to respect the independence of the media and to refrain from any conduct that threatens the safety and freedom of journalists,” Pant added.
Featured photos : Editor Budhathoki (left) & Ambassador Song (right), screenshot of the X conversation.
