KATHMANDU: The Nepali Congress’ 15th General Convention has introduced several new practices, focusing on policy-oriented transformation, reduced publicity and greater use of technology compared to previous conventions.
Held at Kathmandu’s historic Khulamanch under the slogans ‘Changed Congress, Change the Country’ and ‘Congress 2.0’, the convention is preparing to hold elections without forming faction-based panels.
In view of the situation following recent natural disasters and the need for austerity, the party has completely banned physical leaflets, pamphlets, arches and flex banners. Publicity is being carried out through around 100 digital boards in urban areas and social media.
Both the inaugural ceremony and closed sessions are being held at Khulamanch. Three large halls named Himal, Pahad and Tarai-Madhes have been constructed at the historic venue for the closed sessions.
Around 7,700 General Convention representatives have been divided on a geographical basis to discuss political, organisational and policy reports presented through digital boards.
Under the amended statute, the new Nepali Congress Central Working Committee will have 232 members, with 171 elected members and 61 nominated by the party president. The number of joint general secretaries has also been increased to 11.
The new structure guarantees representation of 21 youths under the age of 35, at least one-third women, and seven experts from different fields through ‘lateral entry’. Six representatives from overseas Nepali Congress units will also be included, along with representation of persons with disabilities, minorities, workers and families of martyrs.
Accommodation for General Convention representatives has been arranged in areas including Sundhara, Thamel, Gaushala and Kalanki, while meals have been arranged at Bhrikutimandap. Information is being provided to participants through WhatsApp, AI and SMS.
For healthcare, five health desks staffed by 30 health workers and two ambulances have been deployed.
According to the Central Election Committee, candidates will register their nominations at the National Assembly Hall on Monday, October 5. Due to technical reasons, the party has decided to use traditional paper ballots instead of electronic voting to elect its leadership.
Comment