UML Leadership Crisis: Mahesh Basnet Accuses Pro-Change Faction of 'Factionalism' and 'Opportunism'

UML leader Mahesh Basnet has strongly criticized the faction within the party seeking to replace K.P. Sharma Oli, labelling their actions as opportunism. His criticism came after UML Vice-Chairperson Ashtalakshmi Shakya reportedly stated that the party could not go into elections under Oli's leadership.

Basnet's social media post has sharpened the focus on the internal divide, directly questioning whether Oli's leadership is better for the upcoming election or if the party should move forward with the faces of leaders like Shakya, Bidhya Bhandari, Yogesh Bhattarai, and others.

Basnet accused these leaders of having previously acted with a 'serpent-like silence' while waiting for their chance, suggesting they were engaging in internal 'factionalism' rather than constructive contribution. He further alleged that they are now seizing an unfavorable situation for the party as an opportunity to displace Oli, defame the party, and secure personal gains.

He asserted that the upcoming 11th General Convention, scheduled to be held in Pokhara from Mangsir 27-29, will reveal the true standing of these leaders who criticize the current leadership without presenting viable alternatives. Basnet called upon all party cadres to make a 'prudent decision' regarding the party's future.