Nepali Congress Dispute: Party Split ‘Temporarily Halted’ Following Court Order, What’s Next for Unity?
Image source, rss
The Supreme Court has opened the door to reviewing its earlier decision on the official status dispute in the Nepali Congress, escalating the party’s internal conflict into a new phase.
This development raises questions about the ongoing unity efforts between factions of the Congress that did and did not participate in the special general convention.
Leader Prakash Sharan Mahat, representing the non-participating faction at the convention, indicates that the unity process may be halted. “Gagan ji had secured party recognition through the court and carried the responsibility to initiate unity inclusive of all members. Since that didn’t materialize, we had to convene a national assembly for further discussion,” said Mahat. “Now that the court has allowed review of the earlier verdict, I believe we must wait for its decision.”
Nepali Congress General Secretary Pradeep Paudel expresses confidence that whether the court’s permission will be used to foster unity or interpreted as a victory for one faction will determine the outcome of unification.
“This is our internal matter; we must proceed with mutual understanding. I believe this will strengthen the environment for unity,” he stated.
Has the Institutional Mainstay Lost Its Edge?
The faction outside the institutional group was prepared to accept the special general convention conditionally.
Reports indicated that this faction planned to establish a mechanism to ensure the 15th general convention would take place in a fair environment, incorporating delegates elected during the 14th general convention.
According to political analyst Sheetal Koirala, who has long reported on Congress affairs, the institutional faction has lost a significant opportunity after the court order until a final decision is reached.
“Chairman Gagan Thapa had the power and position at his leadership assembly to unify the party but that strong weapon has suddenly weakened,” he observed. “The strength is no longer what it was in the unity process. Yesterday, others had to accommodate him, but the situation is now reversing.”
However, General Secretary Pradeep Paudel does not perceive the institutional faction’s influence as diminished following the court’s decision.
“We are not ignoring unity despite the issues affecting us; we’re pursuing efforts based on understanding,” he said. “But if someone insists on a unilateral approach and questions why understanding is necessary, then it becomes a problem.”
‘Party Split Temporarily Halted’
Image source, DrShashankKoirala/X
The faction outside the institutional group has appointed former minister Dr. Shashank Koirala as coordinator and is organizing a national assembly starting from August 14 (Shrawan 29).
This assembly was previously expected to lead to a split within the Congress.
Political historian Jagat Nepal feels that the possibility of immediate division now appears to be off the table.
“Since the party recognition issue was raised again at their own request, the faction outside the institution cannot form a new party; therefore, the potential division is currently on hold,” he explained.
Leader Prakash Sharan Mahat stated that the national assembly will continue and include discussions about overall unity efforts.
“Justice and unity will be the main topics of the assembly,” he noted.
Former Chairperson Sher Bahadur Deuba is expected to return to Nepal on August 12 (Shrawan 26) and will be invited as the chief guest at the assembly.
“We have not yet spoken with him, but surely he will attend as the chief guest,” Mahat added.
Congress’ General Convention ‘Will Not Be Halted’
Image source, Nepal Photo Library
Despite the court’s directive to review the issue of party recognition, the institutional faction has stated it will not halt the special general convention they announced.
General Secretary Pradeep Paudel remarked that the 15th general convention, proposed in mid-December, will be based on consolidating unity.
“In my personal view, everyone should put aside their stances and work toward creating an environment for unity starting from the 15th general convention,” he said. “We are trying to create a situation that includes everyone.”
Image source, Nepal Photo Library
The faction outside the institution remains hopeful of receiving justice through the courts.
Leader Mahat said, “Even if the court sanctions the 14th general convention tomorrow, our primary goal will remain overall unity.”
The institutional faction also hopes for continuity of the previous court ruling.
“There is no option but to accept the order. We expect the outcome we desire will come through this, but we can also aim to create a situation of understanding before the court’s decision,” said General Secretary Paudel.
According to journalist Sheetal Koirala, party workers’ loyalties align with the faction that holds the four-star flag and election symbol.
“This will influence public opinion within the party,” he added, “making the final court ruling decisive.”
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