Kathmandu— The Nepali Congress is embroiled in a serious internal conflict, with President Gagan Kumar Thapa pushing forward with preparations for the 15th General Convention despite challenges from a faction led by former president Sher Bahadur Deuba who question the legitimacy of the process. The dispute, originating from a Special General Convention, has expanded into a broader debate concerning party unity, internal democracy, and the authority to convene the convention, even drawing in Nepal’s Election Commission and Supreme Court. While both sides profess a desire for unification, they remain deeply divided over how to achieve it, with the October 2-5 convention looming as a critical juncture for the nation's oldest democratic party.

Legal Battles And Shifting Recognition

The Election Commission and Supreme Court initially recognized the leadership that emerged from the Special General Convention, but the Supreme Court has agreed to review its earlier decision following petitions filed by Deuba and former acting president Purna Bahadur Khadka. This ongoing legal challenge keeps the leadership dispute alive despite efforts to move forward with convention preparations. The Thapa-led Central Working Committee maintains that the special convention reflected a genuine demand for change from party members, while the Deuba faction argues it was conducted outside of established party statutes.

Generational Shift And Party Renewal

Nepali Congress spokesperson Devraj Chalise attributes the current rift to resistance towards necessary changes within the party. He stated that the Gen Z movement prompted a reevaluation of the Nepali Congress’s organization and its connection with voters, highlighting a need for reform to better align with public demands. According to Chalise, over 50 percent of party representatives supported the Special General Convention, and he expressed frustration that some leaders are attempting to create division despite this support.

Deuba Faction Cites Political Instability

Leaders from the Deuba faction, including Min Bahadur Bishwakarma, connect the current dispute to broader political turmoil surrounding the Gen Z movement. Bishwakarma described infrastructure damage and casualties during the unrest, claiming that Sher Bahadur Deuba himself was attacked and injured. He argues that, rather than unifying the party during this difficult period, some leaders pursued a special general convention, which he deems illegal according to the party statute. Despite their opposition, the faction maintains its commitment to unification and will accept the outcome of a legally constituted convention.

Calls For Dialogue And Reconciliation

General secretary Pradip Paudel has emerged as a key voice advocating for reconciliation within the Nepali Congress. He warned that the party cannot afford to be consumed by internal disputes while Nepal faces political uncertainty, emphasizing its role as a democratic movement entrusted with the hopes of the Nepali people. Paudel urged leaders and cadres to resolve their differences through dialogue, suggesting that political issues are best addressed through negotiation rather than legal battles or public confrontations. He invited dissatisfied members to return to party headquarters for talks.

Convention Preparations Continue Amid Uncertainty

Despite the ongoing dispute, the Nepali Congress Central Working Committee has confirmed the 15th General Convention will take place from October 2-5 and is proceeding with preparations. The Thapa faction aims to ensure the convention is inclusive enough to reintegrate dissenting voices, while the Deuba faction continues to seek recognition of its preferred organizational structure before fully accepting the process.

The Supreme Court’s review of its earlier ruling will be a key factor in determining the path forward for the Nepali Congress. Both factions have expressed willingness to accept a unified outcome, but significant disagreements remain regarding the legitimacy of past and future proceedings.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.