KATHMANDU: Bamdev Gautam, the former vice-chair of the CPN-UML, is set to rejoin the party after three and a half years.
Gautam had remained neutral during disputes between former CPN co-chairs KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ opting to lead the National Campaign for Unity of Nepal Communist Party. He left the UML on September 3, 2021, citing dissatisfaction with party leadership.
Recently, Gautam has engaged in discussions with UML leadership, including two rounds of talks with Prime Minister and UML Chair KP Sharma Oli.
DB Karki, spokesperson for the Unity Campaign, confirmed that the campaign, led by Gautam, would merge with the UML within a week.
Gautam had previously explored unification with the CPN (Unified Socialist), led by Madhav Kumar Nepal.
However, Karki stated that disagreements and conditions imposed by the Unified Socialist party ended the possibility of collaboration.
Internal splits and future directions
While Gautam’s Unity Campaign prepares to merge with the UML, internal divisions have surfaced.
Four provincial in-charges, including Mahendra Aryal, have separated from Gautam’s campaign, indicating their intention to join the Maoist Centre or other left-leaning parties. A four-member dialogue committee has been formed for negotiations.
Despite officially leaving the UML in 2021, Gautam has renewed his party membership through his spouse, maintaining a connection with the party.
Recent meetings between Gautam and Oli have solidified plans for his return.
Leaders close to Gautam, including his press advisor Bishwomani Subedi, have already rejoined the UML.
Subedi confirmed that Gautam’s return is finalized, pending the announcement of a formal date.
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