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Former Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba returned to Nepal on Thursday after nearly six months abroad, amid an ongoing money-laundering investigation and an arrest warrant issued against him.
Deuba, 80, arrived at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu after leaving Nepal in February for medical treatment.
Hundreds of supporters gathered at the airport and along the streets to welcome the veteran Nepali Congress leader.
Nepalese authorities issued an arrest warrant against Deuba in April in connection with a money-laundering investigation.
Deuba has denied the allegations and said the investigation concerns him and his family.
The case is being handled by Nepal’s Department of Money Laundering Investigation.
An arrest warrant has also been issued against Deuba’s wife, former foreign minister Arzu Rana Deuba, in connection with the investigation.
Nepali authorities had earlier sought Interpol Red Notices against the couple, but Interpol rejected the request.
Deuba is expected to attend a three-day Nepali Congress assembly beginning Friday.
His return comes at a time of heightened political and legal uncertainty within the party.
Despite the investigation, Deuba received a strong welcome from supporters upon his arrival.
Nepal Police said security was being provided to the former prime minister at the airport and during his public engagements.