‘Nepal’s Communist Parties Lack Genuine Leftist Character’

Following the recent elections, Nepal’s communist parties have significantly diminished in size, prompting extensive discussions on party reorganization, leadership review, and potential reforms. Dr. Khagendra Prasain emphasized that the electoral defeat of the communists should not be interpreted as the demise of the socialist movement. He pointed out that internal democracy within these parties has weakened due to personal gains and neoliberal tendencies.

After the House of Representatives election, Nepal’s communist parties have become considerably smaller. Currently, in-depth dialogues are underway about party reconstruction, leadership assessments, and reforms. Marking the 77th anniversary of the communist party’s founding, unity has also surfaced as a key issue. In this context, Dr. Prasain stated, “In the last 10 to 15 years, the major communist parties in Nepal have not genuinely led a socialist campaign or movement.”

He further explained, “Following the recent elections, Nepal’s communist parties have become very small.” Expressing concern over the parliamentary status of the communist parties and the condition of the leftist movement, he remarked, “Our constitution explicitly mentions ‘socialism,’ and every political party’s documents, whether winners or losers, include references to socialism.”

Dr. Prasain also noted, “Capitalism and neoliberalism place the individual at the center and treat groups or society as secondary.” He discussed the primary problems and weaknesses observed in the operation of communist parties. Adding to this, he said, “The root cause of party mergers or splits is personal benefit.”