KATHMANDU: Janardan Sharma, a senior leader of the Maoist Center, has long held views differing from Chairman/Coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ and now finds himself increasingly isolated within the party.
With the party’s decision to unify with groups including the CPN-Unified Socialist, the experienced commander of the ‘Janayuddha’ (People’s War) faction faces a critical choice: continue a two-line struggle with Prachanda or chart a new political course.
Isolation within the Secretariat
Sharma’s dissent became evident in the Secretariat meeting held on Saturday. While the meeting concluded in favor of party unification, Sharma argued that unification without addressing ideas and principles would not be fruitful.
Haribol Gajurel, a senior leader, noted that no other secretariat member supported Sharma’s three-page dissent, which advocated party reorganization and new leadership.
“He came out with his own point of view and did not heed suggestions from others,” Gajurel told Khabarhub. “While his concerns about leadership and party structure are valid, rebellion in the current scenario is only feasible through party unity.”
Limited support
So far, no top leader has openly sided with Sharma. Most, including Koshi Province President Harka Bahadur Nembang, favor unification. Even longtime associates of Sharma advise him to prioritize unity.
A few leaders, however, have expressed sympathy for Sharma’s stance. Sudan Kirati, a former Maoist MP, supports strengthening the Maoist Center and party consolidation. Former Karnali Chief Minister Rajkumar Sharma from Rukum may also back him if Sharma leaves the party.
Prachanda emphasized that the party remains united except for Sharma and expressed confidence that Sharma will ultimately vote in favor of unification.
Possibility of a split
It remains uncertain who would support Sharma if he decides to break away. Young leaders and student factions reportedly back him, while senior figures like Ram Karki advocate for a unified communist movement. Analysts suggest that if the Maoist Center merges with the Unified Socialists, Sharma’s faction may not remain in the party.
Optimism for unity
Despite differences, senior leaders remain optimistic. Dev Gurung, Maoist leader, expressed confidence that Sharma will favor unity, noting that his dissent stems from concern over party principles, not an intent to split. Leader Pampha Bhusal echoed this sentiment, stating that Sharma’s stance reflects a desire to strengthen, not divide, the party.
“After unification, we can continue the struggle along the ideological line while ensuring generational change,” Bhusal said. “Janardan Sharma understands this.”
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