11th General Convention of CPN-UML: Focus on Youth and Inclusion

In Kathmandu, on the cusp of the 11th General Convention of the CPN-UML, a remarkable participation of women, Dalits, persons with disabilities, youth, and leaders/cadres from across the country who hold faith in the party, is observed at Bhrikutimandap. 

According to the participants, this General Convention is different from the previous ones and is proceeding with a more inclusive participation.

Saroj Khanal, Secretary of Rupandehi ANNFSU District Committee, who participated in the convention, emphasized the need for leadership selection through the active participation of all castes, classes, and communities. 

He claimed there are no factions within the CPN-UML and expressed confidence that the party's tradition of bringing everyone together and moving forward will be further strengthened. He stated that the upcoming leadership will be stronger and more responsive to the people.

The youth participants in the convention commented that the recently discussed 'Gen Z movement' has only led to vandalism and instability, asserting that the CPN-UML is a capable party that can unite all generations and communities and move forward.

Similarly, Roshan Ghimire, a participant, stated that the 11th General Convention of the CPN-UML is being conducted with great enthusiasm. He made it clear that whoever comes to the leadership in UML, based on a collective spirit, everyone will cooperate. 

According to him, leadership is not something given by someone; it is a process established on the basis of capability, diligence, contribution, and performance. Since personalities from youth to all classes within UML are capable and excellent, the party will move forward strongly regardless of who leads, he said.

Likewise, active youth leader Kamal Rawal expressed confidence that a capable and positive leadership will emerge in the CPN-UML after the General Convention. He noted that this convention has paid special attention to youth issues, and the active participation of youth suggests that the future leadership will also be youth-friendly. 

According to him, in the politics of today, regardless of who assumes the leadership, everyone must unite and advance the party. He stressed that leaders and cadres from across the country, carrying the faith of UML, should happily move the party forward.

Rawal, who is also the Valley President of CTEVT (Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training), stated that youth-centric politics is being advanced within the CPN-UML, prioritizing the youth. He is of the view that bringing youth into leadership will prevent a generational gap and make the party more energetic.

The youth participants at the convention clarified that "the tendency to only remember Gen Z when talking about youth is wrong," and strong youth leadership is also advancing within the CPN-UML. They stated that the participation of everyone has made this General Convention successful and meaningful.