In a bold move that formalizes the divide in Nepal’s largest opposition party, the Election Commission on January 17 recognized Gagan Thapa’s leadership of the Nepali Congress, sidelining Sher Bahadur Deuba’s longstanding influence. The announcement, coming swiftly after a contentious special convention, has Thapa’s allies rejoicing while Deuba’s group mobilizes for mass agitation across the country.
Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari led the commission’s deliberation, approving Thapa’s panel by a majority despite one member’s opposition. Drawing from party statutes, the body cited three irrefutable grounds: the constitutional right of 40% delegates to call a special general convention, which occurred when the central committee stalled; the overriding power of convention delegates; and the absence of any logged dissent to the gathering.
Thapa wasted no time, issuing a statement hailing the ‘constitutional and lawful’ verdict. He appealed for solidarity from all Congress members, vowing to fortify the organization and honoring Deuba’s contributions. ‘We are grateful to the commission for upholding the rules,’ he emphasized.
Deuba’s supporters, however, decried the outcome as unjust, pre-announcing protests should Thapa prevail. A central working committee session is set for Saturday at the Lalitpur headquarters, signaling their defiance. The commission offered an olive branch, allowing Deuba’s faction to form a separate entity if desired.
This schism threatens to polarize Nepal’s politics further, especially with elections on the horizon in March. Legal battles could delay preparations, forcing voters to navigate a splintered opposition. Observers warn of prolonged instability, as the once-unified Nepali Congress grapples with internal power struggles that echo broader democratic tensions in the Himalayan nation.
The saga underscores the high stakes of party governance in Nepal, where constitutional adherence clashes with veteran loyalties, potentially redrawing the map of power ahead of the polls.
