KATHMANDU: The government led by KP Sharma Oli, which had come close to securing a two-thirds majority, collapsed on September 9 following two days of Gen-Z protests. Less than three weeks since his exit, Oli has now resurfaced in Gundu, Bhaktapur.
Oli, who spent 10 days in a military barracks after leaving office, moved into a residence in Gundu on September 18, arranged by CPN-UML politburo member Mahesh Basnet. Since then, Basnet has mobilized large groups of youth and supporters around Oli.
On Wednesday, Oli appeared in a markedly different way: draped with garlands and khadas offered by party leaders, youth activists, and supporters. Leaders like Pasang Sherpa led the welcoming gesture.
However, the celebratory display has sparked unease within UML. “The blood of Gen-Z protesters has not dried, yet garlanding the leader at such a time feels inappropriate,” one UML leader remarked, questioning whether it was meant to celebrate his forced exit from power.
Meanwhile, slogans such as “KP Ba, I love you” have begun to echo in Gundu, signaling attempts by Basnet and others to showcase Oli’s continued influence within UML.
At the same time, Basnet himself has drawn criticism within the party for making controversial remarks targeting women. UML central committee member Ushakiran Timalsina voiced strong objections to misogynistic and obscene comments made by leaders within affiliated organizations.
“No one should insult our sisters, daughters, or relatives with such remarks. If they do, they must face action,” Timalsina said, adding that she entered politics after a successful professional career and demanded that criticism against her remain within the bounds of political civility.
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