KATHMANDU: Former Nepali Congress (NC) president and ex-Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has come under criticism after leaving for Singapore for medical treatment just days before the upcoming elections. His absence has raised questions about his commitment during the crucial voting period, especially as Nepali citizens abroad returned home to cast their votes. Many observers see his trip as a sign of silent discontent and accuse him of abandoning election responsibilities.
Leadership tensions within Nepali Congress
Deuba’s sudden departure follows his removal from the party presidency through a special convention led by Gagan Thapa and Bishwa Prakash Sharma, an event he has reportedly struggled to accept. The backdrop includes the September 9 Gen-Z protests, during which Deuba and his wife were attacked at home, highlighting ongoing internal party tensions.
Several key NC leaders are also largely absent from the election campaign. Veteran politician Prakashman Singh, who has won multiple elections from Kathmandu-1 and previously served as Deputy Prime Minister, is not actively campaigning following party leadership changes. Similarly, Krishna Sitoula, former Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, is missing from the campaign trail amid past allegations related to the Sudan fraud case.
Other senior figures, including Purna Bahadur Khadka, a five-time MP and former Home Minister, are focusing on supporting younger family members running for office rather than campaigning personally. Ramesh Lekhak, former minister and central NC member, participates minimally, while Dr. Shashank Koirala, a multiple-term MP from Nawalparasi, is not contesting but assisting in limited campaign activities.
Impact on party campaign
Critics argue that the absence of these seasoned leaders, combined with Deuba’s overseas travel, could affect the party’s performance in key constituencies. In some areas, younger candidates and local party members are leading door-to-door campaigns, but questions about voter confidence and party unity remain.
Deuba’s wife, Dr. Arju Rana Deuba, former Foreign Minister, is also away on a religious trip in India, adding to the perception of the party’s low profile during a crucial election period. Political analysts say this combination of absentee leadership and internal tensions underscores ongoing challenges within the NC, particularly around ticket allocation, campaign strategy, and the influence of established leaders.
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