KATHMANDU: Nepali Communist Party Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has expressed his readiness to participate in a public debate with any political leader ahead of the elections.
Speaking to journalists in Kathmandu on Wednesday, Prachanda said, “I am ready for a public debate. You all know that I have been engaging in debates for a long time. On September 10, the interim government was supposed to be formed, but it was formed on September 12th. I presented myself publicly for the first time right here.”
He also claimed that after the Gen-Z protests on September 8 and 9, he was the first leader to engage journalists and editors in public discussion. “That’s when we mobilized efforts across the country. I have always been active in debates and am ready to debate with anyone,” he added.
Earlier, UML Chairperson KP Sharma Oli also confirmed his willingness for a public debate. However, senior leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, Balendra Sah, who is contesting the first phase of elections, has declined to participate.
Amid growing debate on social media about the need for a public debate between leaders projected as future prime ministers, Oli’s statement sparked reactions. The Election Commission has also sought clarification from Balendra Sah after he stepped back, citing allegations against Oli.
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