Over 65% Delegates Participate in Nepali Congress’ Second Special Convention

Kathmandu: The Nepali Congress’ second special convention officially began on Sunday at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, with over 65% of delegates in attendance.

The convention aims to strengthen the party amid a changing political landscape, align policies with public sentiment, and bring organizational transformation through new leadership and energy.

Out of 4,743 total delegates, 2,662 participated on the opening day, signaling strong engagement and intensifying internal discussions. Three months ago, 2,488 delegates had submitted a formal request for a special convention at the party’s central office in Sanepa. 

As the central working committee did not issue a formal decision, the convention was organized under the leadership of General Secretaries Gagan Kumar Thapa and Bishwprakash Sharma.

Earlier, the central executive committee had scheduled the 15th general convention for Baisakh 28–31, 2083. The special convention organizing committee clarified that this special session was held according to party bylaws.

On the first day, signatures of 2,662 delegates were collected. Although top leaders, including President Sher Bahadur Deuba, Acting President Purna Bahadur Khadka, and non-establishment leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala, were invited, they did not attend. 

However, 25 central committee members who had long advocated for a pre-election convention participated. Most speakers expressed confidence that senior leaders would join the closed sessions later.

By province, delegates included 425 from Koshi, 446 from Madhesh, 432 from Bagmati, 296 from Gandaki, 398 from Lumbini, 134 from Karnali, and 158 from Sudurpashchim. Kathmandu Valley contributed 178 delegates, while 195 more joined from fraternal, well-wisher, and public relations committees.