POKHARA: The 10th general convention of Yuwa Sangh Nepal, the youth wing of CPN-UML, will move forward with leadership elections, defying party chair KP Sharma Oli’s directive for consensus.
Contrary to recent conventions in 11 UML-affiliated organizations where leadership was selected unanimously, this convention—currently underway in Pokhara—will proceed with a vote.
Nominations are scheduled between 4 PM and 6 PM on Sunday, according to the election committee.
Kshitij Thebe, the favored candidate of senior UML leaders including Oli and former President Bidya Devi Bhandari, faces a challenge from current General Secretary Suman Puri. Puri rejected the push for a unanimous selection, demanding democratic competition.
Despite coordination committee chief Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal’s efforts to install Thebe as chair based on Oli’s instructions, Puri remained firm in his decision to contest.
Oli’s close allies are also backing Mahesh Chaulagain for General Secretary, while other leaders are lobbying for Rajan Thapa as Deputy General Secretary.
Electronic voting machines were already transported to Pokhara on Saturday in preparation for the election.
With vice-chair candidates Maharaj Gurung, Krishnahari KC, and Prakash Gautam stepping back, the chairmanship race has narrowed to Thebe and Puri. Puri is contesting with a full panel, signaling a significant internal showdown within the youth wing.
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