Congress Led by Gagan Thapa Will Be the Official Party: Purna Basnet

Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP) Nepal leader Purna Basnet has claimed that the Nepali Congress led by Gagan Thapa will be recognized as the official Congress party. At a time when both the Deuba-led and Thapa-led factions are staking claims to official status, Basnet said that the Congress led by Thapa—elected through a Special General Convention—will be the legitimate one.

Basnet stated, “For a political party, the General Convention is the supreme body. The decisions taken by it are final. Party members are sovereign, and since they are the ones who choose leaders and policies, a Special General Convention attended by a majority of party members is certain to gain recognition.”

Regarding the withdrawal of signatures by 885 delegates of the Special General Convention, he said it holds no relevance. “Once the Special General Convention is concluded, even if delegates withdraw their signatures or leave the party, it has no meaning,” he added.

Commenting on the Deuba-led Congress approaching the Election Commission to claim official status, Basnet said that the Deuba faction, after failing to do what it should have done and later regretting it, has now engaged in actions it should not have.

Expressing optimism that the Nepali Congress will undergo transformation and strengthening under Gagan Thapa’s leadership, Basnet also extended congratulations to the newly elected executive committee.