KATHMANDU: The CPN-UML has suspended the party membership of former President Bidya Devi Bhandari, citing her recent political activities and public statements as a breach of party discipline and a violation of constitutional norms.
In a directive issued on Monday, formalizing decisions taken during the party’s Central Committee meeting earlier this month, the UML stated that Bhandari’s recent behavior contradicts the expectations of a former head of state and undermines the values of the constitution.
The party noted that Bhandari, despite no longer holding an official position within the UML, has been actively involved in political discourse in ways that contradict party policy and principles. Her public remarks, which have been perceived as critical of UML leadership, reportedly prompted the party to question her alignment with party values.
“The current actions of former President Bidya Devi Bhandari have raised serious concerns about adherence to party discipline and the non-partisan stature expected of a former head of state,” the UML directive states. The party emphasized that any return to active politics must be in line with its internal code of conduct.
The directive also links the former president’s recent political engagements to a broader pattern of what the party describes as “organized attacks” against the UML and its leadership. The party claims these are part of an effort to weaken its nationalist positioning and political strength.
While stressing that Bhandari should be respected as a former president, the UML underlined that her involvement in partisan political activities violates the non-political status constitutionally expected of individuals who have held the country’s highest office.
The party has also instructed its members to be alert to external forces attempting to influence internal dynamics through media, social networks, and ideological attacks.
Bhandari, who previously served as UML Vice-Chair before assuming the presidency in 2015, formally severed ties with the party upon taking office. However, her recent speeches and political engagements have drawn increasing scrutiny from party leadership.
The UML clarified that its decision is part of a broader effort to uphold party discipline and maintain institutional integrity as it moves forward with its “Mission 2084” campaign.
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