KATHMANDU: CPN-UML leader Pradeep Gyawali walked out of the ongoing 11th national convention on Monday, deepening the rift within the faction led by Chairperson KP Sharma Oli.
Gyawali, a contender for the General Secretary post, left the Gundu meeting in the morning after disputes over the position remained unresolved. He later also exited the convention venue at Bhrikuti Mandap, refusing to accept the vice-chairperson role offered by the Oli team.
Four days ago, Gyawali had declared that he would not assume any post if denied the General Secretary position. Attempts by Oli to persuade him involved Vice-Chair Vishnu Paudel, Deputy General Secretary Vishnu Rimal, and Prithvi Subba Gurung, but the discussions failed to convince him.
Following Gyawali’s exit, Prithvi Subba Gurung, also named for the vice-chairperson post, reportedly warned that he would withdraw his candidacy if Gyawali was not given the General Secretary post.
The walkout highlights mounting tension within the Oli faction as the party moves toward finalizing its leadership panel at the convention.
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