KATHMANDU: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has publicly expressed her intention to contest for the chairpersonship of the CPN-UML, indicating a significant political comeback after renewing her party membership.
In an exclusive interview with journalist Jagadish Kharel on Image Channel, Bhandari hinted at her ambitions to take over the party’s top leadership in the upcoming general convention. She also suggested she would be open to serving as Nepal’s prime minister in the future.
Responding to a direct question about whether she plans to become UML’s next chairperson, Bhandari said, “What you understand is not far from the truth. The 11th General Convention hasn’t been announced yet, so it’s too early to specify a position. But this is already a subject of public debate. Given my experience, the responsibility I might take aligns with what you’re suggesting. Absolutely. Is there any doubt?”
Bhandari also commented on the future of current party chair KP Sharma Oli, saying it was not realistic for one person to hold on to the same position indefinitely.
“In our team, responsibility must be passed on. Our party practices a degree of internal democracy. Oli has already served two terms, largely due to political circumstances like the party split with Madhav Nepal,” she said.
She added, “The KP Oli I know would not seek to continue indefinitely just because others ask him to.”
Bhandari’s comments come amid internal debates in UML about future leadership. She suggested that her return to the party through official membership renewal has provided Chair Oli with an easier path to manage succession debates.
“The time has come to decide on leadership, and my joining may have made things easier for Oli,” she said.
On being asked whether she believed Oli would support her candidacy, Bhandari replied confidently: “I believe he will welcome me even more warmly than Prachanda welcomed Pasang.”
She highlighted her preference for a consensus-based leadership transition but also acknowledged that competition was possible if consensus is not reached.
“If it cannot be decided through consensus, then yes, there could be a contest,” she said.
Bhandari concluded the interview by expressing her desire to become UML’s next chairperson through consensus.
“I believe KP Oli will not seek a third term, and I am hopeful of becoming the next chairperson through unity,” she said. “My political direction is clearly moving that way.”
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