KATHMANDU: The upcoming 10th general convention of the Unified Socialist Party is poised to witness a tug-of-war between Chairman Madhav Kumar Nepal and esteemed leader Jhalanath Khanal, both vying for the party’s chairmanship.

Scheduled in Kathmandu from May 16 to 20, the convention was initially slated for February 16 to 18, but was deferred due to inadequate preparation and the National Assembly (NA) elections.

According to Party Vice-Chair Jayanti Rai, this convention will feature elections for both convention proceedings and leadership appointments.

The party has convened a central council meeting, affirming that the entire leadership selection process will be conducted through direct elections.

An intense competition between Madhav Nepal and Jhalanath Khanal for the party Chairpersonship is inevitable.

In a conversation with Khabarhub, Khanal expressed his readiness to contest for the presidency, stating, “This is a necessity for the nation. I am prepared to assume any responsibility to safeguard the country, its people, and the party.”

Chairman Nepal, however, claims to be unaware of Khanal’s candidacy for the party presidency in the upcoming convention, asserting, “The party has already resolved to opt for direct elections.”

He emphasizes that leadership will be determined when the elections take place, rather than speculating on who will assume the presidency.

Tensions have escalated between the top leaders of the Unified Socialist, with Khanal advocating for Left unity while purportedly favoring an alliance with Nepali Congress and Maoist Center.

Recent fissures among the top leaders of Maoist Center and CPN-UML have resulted in the formation of the Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP) under Upendra Yadav’s leadership, following attempts to recalibrate power dynamics with the Nepali Congress to supplant the current alliance.

Suspicions linger among the leadership of the ruling parties regarding Chairman Nepal’s involvement in internal power struggles, allegedly maneuvering to disrupt the prime ministerial tenure by forging an alliance with the Nepali Congress.

Party Chairman Madhav Nepal, however, advocates for a Nepali-centric socialist path within the framework of multi-party democracy, and socialism tailored to Nepalese realities.

Consequently, he may face repercussions in terms of party division.

Nevertheless, the Unified Socialist Party’s Parliamentary Party meeting, held on Monday, has resolved to uphold the existing alliance, refuting rumors circulating within the party.

Khanal dismissed suggestions of withdrawing from the government as mere hearsay.

While the specter of a Unified Socialist split prior to the convention has been temporarily averted amid ongoing power coalition negotiations, party leaders caution that the situation remains fluid, awaiting the unfolding of subsequent events.

In informal discussions, it’s evident that Khanal’s move to eliminate the 70-year age limit from the party constitution is perceived as a strategic maneuver to bolster his candidacy for the presidency, setting the stage for a pivotal congress of the Party.

Understanding the dispute between Madhav Nepal and Jhalanath Khanal

Madhav Kumar Nepal’s stance on reuniting with his former party, CPN-UML, isn’t immediate. Conversely, Jhalanath Khanal advocates for party unity through a left alliance.

The crux of the discord between Madhav Nepal and Khanal lies in the party’s political trajectory.

The two leaders are divided on whether to embrace “multi-party democracy of the people” or pursue a socialist course.

Madhav Nepal favors progressing by adopting a pragmatic approach, aligning with the late Madan Bhandari’s vision.

Khanal, rooted in socialist principles, insists on adhering to a more ideologically driven path.

Contrary voices emerge from within the party Secretariat, where some leaders express admiration for Jhalanath’s principles clandestinely.

Khanal asserts that socialist programs and objectives are non-negotiable, emphasizing the need for leadership to articulate the party’s vision and direction.

He states, “Clarity on principles and direction will emerge with the new leadership post-convention, defining our goals and struggles.”

Party Chairman Madhav Nepal, however, advocates for a Nepali-centric socialist path within the framework of multi-party democracy, and socialism tailored to Nepalese realities.

He stresses the importance of upholding principles while advancing the system.

Interestingly, Madhav Nepal’s and UML Chairman KP Oli’s principles appear more aligned compared to those of Jhalanath and Oli.

While Madhav Nepal has facilitated the Samajwadi Mocha (Socialist Front) coalition, indicating a potential thaw in relations with Oli, their interactions remain formal, with occasional discussions at public events.

Insiders speculate that Khanal, championing greater left unity and eyeing the presidency, may seek reconciliation with UML post-convention.

However, party spokesperson Prakash Jwala refutes such claims, affirming the party’s commitment to strengthening its organization without external alliances.

A member of the party Secretariat, close to Khanal, asserts the necessity for Jhalanath Khanal’s leadership to consolidate left forces and articulate the party’s policy and goals.

Khanal remains resolute in his aspiration for the presidency, even through direct elections, envisioning a future where he assumes the helm while Nepal serves as prime minister.

Contrary to these assertions, a Madhav Nepal loyalist suggests that the party Chairman traditionally assumes the prime ministership, hinting at Madhav Nepal’s continued relevance within the party’s hierarchy.

Jaganath Khatiwada, Head of the Party’s Publicity Department, confirms that formal information regarding leadership candidacies from both leaders is yet to be disseminated, underscoring the anticipation surrounding the upcoming convention.

Madhav Nepal holds strong, no contest in sight

The Khanal faction shows no inclination to elevate Jhalanath Khanal to the presidency, opting instead to position Madhav Nepal as a contender for prime ministership.

The Madhav Nepal camp asserts a 70 percent majority within the Secretariat, while the Khanal faction maintains party-wide support, refraining from naming specific individuals.

Sudesh Parajuli, a central member of the party, deemed a leader of the Nepal camp, expressed to Khabarhub, “Madhav Nepal is indispensable to the party, the nation, and its people. The consensus is clear: there’s no alternative to Madhav Nepal. It’s perplexing what’s transpiring within the party. Jhalanath Khanal suggested reform, yet appears reticent about assuming the presidency.”

Parajuli further indicated that even the youth faction seemed disinclined to endorse Jhalanath as prime minister alongside Madhav Nepal.

Contrary voices emerge from within the party Secretariat, where some leaders express admiration for Jhalanath’s principles clandestinely.

Sanjeev Rai, a youth leader within the Khanal camp, affirmed, “New leadership is imminent at the convention. Discussions and consultations are ongoing. The convention draws near.”

It may be noted that the Unified Socialist Party’s Secretariat comprises one respected leader, one chairperson, seven vice chairs, one general secretary, four deputy general secretaries, and six secretaries. Madhav Kumar Nepal serves as the party Chairperson.

Vice Chairs include Rajendra Pandey, Dr. Beduram Bhusal, Pramesh Kumar Hamal, Dhanendra Basnet, Keshav Lal Shrestha, Dharmanath Prasad Sah, and Jayanthi Rai.

Secretary General Ghanshyam Bhusal’s deputies are Prakash Jwala, Dr. Gangalal Tuladhar, Bijay Paudel, and Jagannath Khatiwada.

Secretaries comprise Nagendra Chaudhary, Garima Shah, Rajendra Kumar Rai, Ram Kumari Jhankri, Jiwan Ram Shrestha, and Hari Parajuli.

The Madhav Nepal camp asserts a 70 percent majority within the Secretariat, while the Khanal faction maintains party-wide support, refraining from naming specific individuals.