KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress (NC) leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala has announced that he will contest for the post of President at the party’s 15th General Convention, scheduled to begin on January 10, 2026.
Speaking to Khabarhub, Koirala expressed confidence in his bid and emphasized that he will contest the election without hesitation.
“I am a candidate for the presidency in the 15th General Convention, and I will win the election no matter what,” he said. “There are discussions on whether to move forward with a team or independently, but I will not step back.”
How excited are you about the General Convention being held on schedule?
After a long effort, I am pleased that the 15th General Convention will take place before the March 5, 2026, elections. This decision has encouraged not only me but all Nepali Congress members who care deeply about the party. It will make the party even stronger.
What preparations have you made for the General Convention?
I am preparing thoroughly. I am making my decisions based on the aspirations of Nepali Congress well-wishers and those concerned about the nation. As before, I am standing for the presidency. I am engaged in all the work required—holding discussions with leaders and cadres and remaining active in organizational responsibilities.
Will you give the opportunity to someone else this time?
No. I will contest for the presidency. The circumstances have changed, and leaders like us must step forward. If not now, when? This is my time. I cannot remain idle when the Congress needs revitalization. I must work to make the party dynamic and forward-looking.
Some say you may not contest this time either. What is your response?
That will not happen. I will stand for the presidency. My colleagues fully support me. I am 100 percent confident. I will not be entangled in any deal or confusion. My friends have clearly told me not to withdraw.
What will your team look like?
We will move forward with a team and a panel. My team will be formed, and colleagues have encouraged me not to step back. There may also be an agreement in my name, but these matters will be finalized later.
Are you confident you will win?
Yes. I am contesting to win. I will win. My colleagues have told me they stand with me. No one contests to lose—we are contesting to win.
There is speculation about whether General Secretaries Gagan Thapa and Bishwaprakash Sharma will support you. Has there been any discussion?
They are leaders who have consistently stood for what is right. I will contest regardless of who supports me and who does not. We are working as a team to strengthen the organization. We are together.
Do you expect multiple panels to be formed this time?
There has been no discussion on that yet. If there is an agreement in my name, that would be welcome. The Nepali Congress is a democratic party, and anyone eligible has the right to contest. However, given the current situation, it would be better to move forward through consensus.
I am standing for the presidency to address the concerns of the party and the cadres, and I am confident of victory. I hereby officially announce my candidacy for the presidency of the upcoming General Convention to be held in Kathmandu on January 10, 11, and 12, 2026. I urge all delegates to support me.
Finally, what is the situation across the country? Will you travel to assess preparations?
If necessary, I will visit. But the organizational structure of the Nepali Congress is strong. We have dedicated colleagues throughout the country, and I trust them.
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