KATHMANDU: Senior Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala has stressed that any special convention should be called by the party’s central committee on the basis of consensus, ensuring broad acceptance within the party.
Speaking on Sunday during a discussion at his private secretariat with over 30 central committee members, Dr. Koirala said that convening a special convention through the central committee would address the sentiments of all factions and gain legitimacy across the party. He added that preparations for such a convention are already underway.
He suggested that since the process to finalize proportional candidates for the National Assembly and the House of Representatives is currently a priority, it would be appropriate to call the special convention after January 20.
“By that time, all nomination processes for the National Assembly and House of Representatives will be completed. Calling the convention then will also send a strong message of unity within the party,” Dr. Koirala said.
He also stressed the importance of consulting with supporters of the special convention to finalize the timing. On another note, he stated that the party should clearly decide not to form alliances in the upcoming House of Representatives elections.
“While alliances may gain two to four direct seats, proportional votes will decline, causing long-term harm to the Nepali Congress. I am clear that Nepali Congress should contest the elections independently,” he added.
During the discussion, central committee member Pushpa Bhusal highlighted efforts to engage with top leaders to resolve internal disputes. She clarified that although they do not belong to any faction, they are concerned about internal conflicts and are making efforts to mediate. Bhusal also urged Dr. Koirala to find a moderate path forward.
Most central committee members suggested transforming the special convention into an electoral manifesto announcement event ahead of the elections. They noted that stubbornness on the part of both the establishment and special convention factions has further deepened the party’s disputes. Members collectively urged Dr. Koirala to coordinate and identify a balanced solution.
Other central committee members present in the discussion included Chinkaji Shrestha, Dila Sangroula, Ramjanam Chaudhary, Uday Shamsher Rana, and Arjun Josheel, among others.
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