Nepali Congress Special Convention Moves Toward Elections

Kathmandu: The Nepali Congress’s special convention has ultimately shifted toward the election process. Despite overnight negotiations held in multiple rounds, it has become clear that both policy and leadership changes within the party will now be decided through elections, as Party President Sher Bahadur Deuba is not prepared to relinquish leadership.

Subas Pokharel, Coordinator of the Special General Convention Publicity Subcommittee, said that although information had been received about a final attempt at negotiations from the establishment faction, the convention program was being moved forward accordingly.

He stated, “The election schedule remains unchanged. We have received information that efforts for dialogue are ongoing, and we respect that. However, if no consensus is reached, the process will proceed as per our program.”

Pokharel also made it clear during a press conference held Tuesday evening at the convention’s media center that leadership would be selected through elections if an agreement could not be reached.

According to him, while the establishment faction appears ready to take ownership of the special convention, President Deuba’s unwillingness to hand over leadership is unacceptable to their side. He further expressed the view that President Deuba should step aside from party leadership and dedicate the remainder of his life to writing about the party and his personal legacy.

Meanwhile, the closed session concluded on Tuesday evening after the report presented by General Secretaries Gagan Kumar Thapa and Bishwo Prakash Sharma was passed. Leaders supporting the special general convention are also reported to be preparing a blueprint for a new office-bearer structure.

Although the door for dialogue will remain open on Wednesday morning, the election process will move forward according to a new schedule. 

According to Sitaram KC, senior advocate and coordinator of the Central Election Committee, the nomination registration period has been extended from 8:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m..