KATHMANDU: The Nepali Congress (NC) finds itself embroiled in internal disputes, mirroring controversies seen in factions.

Ahead of the Mahasamiti meeting in February 2024, leaders from the disgruntled faction led by leaders Dr. Shekhar Koirala and Gagan Thapa are intensifying efforts to influence party President Sher Bahadur Deuba to give a message of unity.

Amid mounting pressure, General Secretary Thapa and Dr. Koirala conveyed a united front during Wednesday’s meeting, asserting unanimity on the agenda.

This development has stirred anticipation among leaders from other factions.

In a strategic move, Thapa proposed Shekhar as the party leader, emphasizing the need for a new direction.

Thapa, having previously sought the role of parliamentary party leader without success, now advocates for Shekhar’s elevation to salvage the party’s future.

Thapa hinted that failure to change the party leadership could jeopardize the 2082 BS convention, with Deuba set to become Prime Minister after Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda per consensus.

Analysts speculate that Thapa’s proposal aims to position himself favorably for the 2082 BS convention if Shekhar assumes the party leadership and prime ministership.

Despite winning the 14th Congress General Secretary, Gagan Thapa faces a challenge from Deuba, who secured 64 votes to Thapa’s 25 in the last parliamentary party election.

Thapa believes aligning with Shekhar can neutralize dissatisfaction within his faction and the organization, potentially securing success.

The uphill battle to displace Deuba requires at least 44 MPs’ support for Shekhar to assume the party Presidentship.

Some party insiders suggest that including influential figures like Bal Krishna Khand, previously imprisoned in a case involving fake Bhutanese refugees, could tilt the balance against Deuba.

Gagan Thapa, accompanied by another General Secretary Bishwa Prakash Sharma and youth leader Pradeep Poudel, faces resistance in recruiting them to his cause.

Shekhar Koirala views Thapa’s attempt to dominate the party solo as problematic, fearing the inclusion of youth leaders could complicate matters.

Despite the uncertainty, some see Gagan’s proposal positively as they advocate for a new leadership approach, asserting that Deuba offers little innovation as Prime Minister.

Youth leaders, mainly from the Shekhar-Gagan faction believe a change in parliamentary party leadership could rejuvenate the Nepali Congress.

A leader sees Shekhar as a potential alternative to Deuba, noting his previous candidacy for the party leadership.

The leader suggests that supporting Shekhar could yield positive results or potentially position Gagan Thapa for the party President in the 15th General Convention.

As discussions unfold, Shekhar Koirala remains silent on Gagan’s proposal, leaving room for strategic considerations.

Another leader from the Shekhar faction acknowledges the unity signaled by Gagan’s proposal but reveals no active discussions on its merits.

While acknowledging the need to resolve internal issues and strengthen the party, leaders, including Arjun Narsigh KC, emphasize the absence of consensus on the leadership for the upcoming Convention.