KATHMANDU: The 10th National Convention of the CPN (Unified Socialist) Party has commenced in Kathmandu, drawing attendance from key leaders of major political parties, though notably absent was CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal graced the event as the chief guest.

According to General Secretary Ghanashyam Bhusal, leaders from all political parties were invited.

Attendees included Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba, Chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party Rabi Lamichhane, Chairman of Janamorcha Chitra Bahadur KC, Chairman of the Nagarik Unmukti Party Ranjita Shrestha, Chairman of JSP Nepal Upendra Yadav, Chairman of JSP Ashok Rai, Chairman of the Janamat Party CK Raut, and Netra Bikram Chand, among others.

Significantly, Yadav and Rai shared the stage for the first time since the JSP Nepal split.

The Rai-led faction broke away to form a new party, JSP, creating a rift between the two leaders.

The CPN (US) was formed approximately three years ago after splitting from the CPN-UML.

Since then, Madhav Kumar Nepal and Oli have struggled to maintain their relationship, despite both being coalition members in the PM Dahal-led government.

The convention, scheduled to run until July 4, will deliberate on political reports, socialist programs, statutes, and organizational matters.

total of 1,849 delegates from across the country are participating. These delegates will elect a 299-member central committee and 21 office bearers.