As protests erupt in Nepal over MCC, US Embassy says violence and incitement to violence are never acceptable

Kathmandu: As violent protests have erupted in Nepal over a US grant, the US Embassy in Kathmandu said it never accepts violence and incitement to violence over the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact.

“We are a strong supporter of free speech & public discourse based in fact, including on MCC. The right to express one’s views is intrinsic to democracy, and people must be allowed to peacefully share their views. Violence & incitement to violence are never acceptable,” said the US Embassy in Kathmandu.

We are a strong supporter of free speech & public discourse based in fact, including on MCC. The right to express one’s views is intrinsic to democracy, and people must be allowed to peacefully share their views. Violence & incitement to violence are never acceptable.

— Ambassador Randy Berry (@USAmbNepal) February 18, 2022

Protests have been staged in different parts of the country including capital city Kathmandu over the Compact as the government prepares to table the Compact for parliamentary ratification despite dispute in the ruling alliance.

Nepal’s ruling alliance is divided over parliamentary endorsement of the US assistance meant for the construction of transmission lines and road upgradation. The tabling of the MCC Compact has been delayed as top leaders in the alliance are still at odds.