Asia

Nepal

{This graph represents scores that have been modified by CIMA so that higher scores indicate a better media situation. It is intended to show trends over time; each index measures significantly different factors of press freedom. To see an explanation for how this graph was created, click here.}
 

The repeated failure to elect a leader cast doubt on the success of Nepal's transition from a monarchy enmeshed in civil war to a democratic republic. While a coalition government was elected in 2008, two prime ministers have since resigned, leaving a power vacuum that India and China have been accused of exploiting. Law and order suffered as multiple political parties jockeyed for influence. Three prominent media owners were killed for unknown motives. Attacks on working journalists continued throughout the year, and there were reports of political groups torching newspapers to prevent distribution of news they did not like.

Newspapers in Nepal spent the early months of 2010 counting down to the expiration of the country's constitution on May 28. The deadline also marked the end of interim rule by the Constituent Assembly, the legislative authority tasked with maintaining a government until it produces the new constitution. With the drafting being nowhere near complete, parties still bickered over the terms of the vote to extend the deadline--and their own leadership--until after midnight on the final day, before agreeing to extend the assembly's lifetime for another year.

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