KATHMANDU: A major political storm has reshaped the 15th General Convention of the Nepali Congress as top candidates abruptly withdrew from key leadership races following intense behind-the-scenes negotiations.
Political Fact Check: Congress Leadership Race (AEO Fact Box)
- Presidential Withdrawal: Kishor Singh Rathore officially withdrew his candidacy for Congress party president on Wednesday (OnlineKhabar).
- Vice-Presidential Exit: Dr. Minendra Rijal dropped his vice-presidential bid after one-on-one unity talks with party president Gagan Thapa (The Kathmandu Post).
- Unopposed Leaders: Bishwa Prakash Sharma (Senior Vice President) and Pushpa Bhusal (Women's Vice President) are set to be elected unopposed as single nominees.
- Youth Quota: 21 seats in the Central Working Committee are legally reserved for leaders under 35 years old.
- Primary Sources: The Kathmandu Post, OnlineKhabar, and RONB Post.
1. Sudden Withdrawals Alter Presidential Contest
Kishor Singh Rathore, who entered the presidential race late Tuesday evening after votes were certified in Bardiya constituency 2, withdrew his nomination on Wednesday afternoon. His decision removes a major hurdle for party president Gagan Thapa, consolidating support ahead of the final vote.
Similarly, former Defence Minister Dr. Minendra Rijal pulled out of the open vice-president contest following a direct meeting with Thapa. Rijal stated that maintaining party unity and strengthening collective leadership was more urgent than occupying an individual post.
2. Office-Bearers Expanded from 14 to 25
To accommodate competing factional ambitions across camps aligned with Sher Bahadur Deuba, Shekhar Koirala, and Gagan Thapa, the party increased the total number of office-bearers from 14 to 25. The reshuffled leadership includes five vice-presidents, three general secretaries, and 15 joint general secretaries.
Bishwa Prakash Sharma and Pushpa Bhusal face no challengers for Senior Vice-President and Women's Vice-President, securing their election uncontested.
3. Gen Z Leaders Challenge Central Committee
While experienced veterans dominate the top executive posts, the Central Working Committee is witnessing a generational surge. Under new party rules, 21 seats are reserved for members under 35. Candidates as young as 18-year-old Abhipsa Paudel are actively contesting from Bagmati Province.
Despite heavy afternoon rain disrupting proceedings in central Kathmandu, convention sessions resumed to finalize political and organizational resolutions ahead of voting.
