KATHMANDU: Former deputy general secretary of the CPN (Maoist Centre), Janardan Sharma, officially launched a new political campaign on Tuesday, announcing his departure from decades-long allegiance with party chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal.
Speaking at a press conference in Lalitpur, Sharma expressed his dissent against the recently brokered unification agreement involving the Maoist Centre and eight other parties.
Sharma, joined by fellow leader Ram Karki, said his opposition to the unification was principled rather than numerical. “Our stance is not based on majority or the number of supporters. We are moving forward with a new reform plan aimed at strengthening party policies, principles, and methods,” he said.
The press conference outlined Sharma’s vision for a reform-oriented political movement with a focus on social justice, youth empowerment, and systemic change. He stressed the campaign’s commitment to combating the caste system, improving governance, and ensuring citizens have easier access to essential services such as citizenship and passports.
Sharma also criticized the Maoist Centre’s convention organizing committee, alleging that it had deliberately stalled the general convention and obstructed the establishment of proper party procedures. He accused Dahal of abandoning Maoist ideology by aligning with Madhav Kumar Nepal’s policies and described the current unification as lacking principles and ideological foundation.
Despite breaking away, Sharma made it clear that he and his team are not seeking leadership positions in the new movement.
“We are not entering a race for chairman or vice-chairman. We are putting the next generation at the forefront. These young leaders, along with the families of martyrs, will carry forward the movement,” Sharma said. Ram Karki reiterated this, noting that they will serve as mentors and advisors rather than occupy executive roles, ensuring that the new campaign remains youth-driven.
Sharma highlighted that the new movement will be anchored in progressive politics and guided by accountability to the public. “This campaign is different. It is ideologically driven, youth-led, and accountable to the people,” he said. He also warned that the political path dominated by older leaders who disregard public sentiment will not be accepted by their movement.
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