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CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli and Nepali Communist Party Coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal held a meeting at the residence of businessman Sharada Prasad Adhikari in Manbhawan, Lalitpur on Sunday. 

Adhikari is a trusted and close businessman of Dahal.

They had a conversation for over an hour, according to a source. 

After holding a meeting with Dahal, Oli went straight to Gundu, Bhaktapur. 

With the unification of new parties for the House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5, informal discussions are underway among the leaders of the three major political parties—Nepali Congress, UML and the Nepali Communist Party—for electoral alliance.

However, the alliance has not been finalized.

They discussed contemporary political issues and electoral alliance for the forthcoming elections, Dahal Secretariat said.

Meanwhile, Dahal is leaving for India to take part in a program today. 

A new political force—the Nepali Communist Party (NCP)—has been officially announced at an event held in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, on Wednesday. The announcement marks the unification of 10 different communist factions into a single party, seen as a major shift in Nepal’s left-wing politics.

During the unity declaration ceremony, it was decided that Pushpa Kamal Dahal will serve as the party’s coordinator, while Madhav Kumar Nepal will take the role of co-coordinator. The proposal, put forward by leader Mahendra Raya Yadav, was endorsed by the assembly.

Senior leader Jhalanath Khanal of the CPN (Unified Socialist) has been given third priority in the newly-formed party, following an agreement among top leaders, including Dahal, earlier on Wednesday morning. Previously, Bamdev Gautam had been designated third, but Khanal’s dissatisfaction over the unity process led to negotiations. Eventually, he agreed to join the NCP with third priority and attended the announcement ceremony. The hierarchy now places Dahal first, Nepal second, Khanal third, Gautam fourth, and Narayan Kaji Shrestha fifth.

Khanal had held talks with CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli just a day earlier, expressing reservations about the unity process and even hinting at initiating party reorganization. However, he eventually sided with the Dahal-Nepal faction.

The National Unity Convention of the newly-formed NCP endorsed nine key resolutions, which include decisions on the party’s name, election symbol, property and organizational structure. The proposals, presented by leader Barsaman Pun, were approved with applause from representatives.

The key resolutions include:

1. Formation of the unified party named the Nepali Communist Party (NCP).
2. Adoption of a five-pointed star as the election symbol.
3. Recognition of all members of uniting parties as members of the NCP.
4. Integration of central committees and structures of all uniting parties under the new organization.
5. Authorization to the coordinator and co-coordinator to finalize organizational adjustments.
6. Declaration that all people’s representatives elected under previous party symbols (Maoist Center, Unified Socialist, Socialist Party and Maoist Socialist) will now represent the NCP.
7. Transfer of all movable and immovable assets of the merging parties to the NCP.
8. Endorsement of the party’s official manifesto.
9. Adoption of the party’s constitution with necessary suggestions and amendments.

At the ceremony, leader Dev Gurung unveiled the party’s 23-point declaration, emphasizing unity and renewal in Nepal’s leftist movement.

The 23-point declarations:

1. To steadfastly uphold Nepal’s national sovereignty, territorial integrity, dignity, and independence.
2. To work with honesty, loyalty, and dedication toward the nation and its people.
3. To remain firm in the universal truths of Marxism-Leninism and apply them creatively according to Nepal’s specific conditions.
4. To remain committed to the socialist revolution and program, and to move firmly toward achieving the great goal of establishing scientific socialism as envisioned by the party since its inception.
5. To remain committed to democratic republicanism, protect the achievements of the people’s revolution, and work toward strengthening the republic and reforming and restructuring all state organs as necessary.
6. To defend the current Constitution of Nepal while taking proactive initiatives to introduce progressive reforms in the governance system, electoral process, federal structure, and by reducing the number of local levels and representatives.
7. To continuously strive to end corruption, irregularities, and delays, and to promote good governance, transparency, social justice, and national prosperity.
8. To take effective initiatives to establish a high-level, empowered Property Investigation Commission to investigate the assets of all individuals who have held public office and take strict action against the corrupt.
9. To make public service delivery efficient, fast, and effective, and to ensure public access to basic services such as education and health.
10. To fight against all forms of exploitation, oppression, injustice, discrimination, inequality, and social distortions present in the current Nepali society.
11. To struggle for ensuring the rights of women, Dalits, the oppressed, minorities, marginalized communities, indigenous nationalities, and all classes, castes, and regions excluded from the state’s mainstream.
12. To prioritize research and development and advance the overall development of the nation.
13. To take special initiatives to develop an independent and self-reliant economy, create employment opportunities, and eradicate poverty.
14. To work toward the economic, social, and cultural transformation of Nepali society by prioritizing the development of agriculture, industries based on domestic raw materials, tourism, and hydropower through well-planned strategies.
15. To conduct development campaigns that ensure the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
16. To remain committed to formulating climate change and environment-friendly development plans and to effective disaster management.
17. To raise the voices of the people and stand with them in their joys and sorrows.
18. To address the issues and aspirations of the GenZ generation.
19. To review past activities comprehensively, correct shortcomings, and move ahead with broad improvements, restructuring, and transformation in working style.
20. To strengthen internal democracy within the party and develop and implement a scientific system for leadership development and transfer.
21. To engage all party leaders and cadres in productive and labor-oriented work.
22. To strictly adhere to communist conduct, discipline, and ethics.
23. To adopt a simple and transparent lifestyle and working approach.

Addressing the event, Coordinator Dahal has credited the GenZ movement for playing a crucial role in forging unity among ten communist factions. He said the sacrifices made by the GenZ protesters exposed the weaknesses within political parties and inspired them to reform.

“The GenZ youth, who came to the streets on Sept 8 demanding good governance and stability while opposing corruption and political disorder, deeply struck us. Their movement made us realize our shortcomings,” he said. “Their sacrifices inspired us to correct our mistakes and begin a new campaign for transformation.”

Paying repeated tributes to the “martyrs of the GenZ movement,” Dahal said their role was instrumental in pushing the communist leaders toward unity. “Had they not made those sacrifices, we might not have realized our weaknesses and initiated this new phase of unity so soon,” he said. He further pledged that the new party will prioritize the aspirations and needs of the youth not only in the party structure but also in state institutions. “This is a historic commitment and a moment of self-reflection for us,” he added.

Calling Wednesday a “historic day” for the communist movement, Prachanda said, “Possibly, this is the first time that ten different communist groups have united at once. This unity, formed by leaders who have gone through ideological struggles in their respective fronts, is truly unprecedented.” He claimed that the day would be remembered as a milestone in Nepal’s communist and political history. “It is not only historic from the perspective of communist unity but also as a foundation for national unity to resolve the current political crisis,” he said.

Dahal further asserted that no one can stop the newly formed Nepali Communist Party from becoming the country’s number one political force. “Now, no one can stop this party from being the number one party in Nepal. Some reactionaries may lose sleep over it—let them. We will take this unity declaration campaign across the country,” he said. He also urged for humility despite the success. “While appealing for electoral mobilization and national support, we must not fall into arrogance,” he added.

Dahal emphasized that the party has no alternative but to correct its weaknesses. “We will take all advice and criticism seriously. There is no alternative to correcting our flaws and going among the people with full dedication,” he said.

Meanwhile, Co-ordinator Madhav Kumar Nepal appealed to the GenZ generation and social activists to join hands with the new party. “We are ready to work together with the GenZ generation for social justice, good governance, and against corruption,” he said, revealing that several GenZ leaders had joined the party earlier that morning. “I want to congratulate those who joined us and call upon other GenZ friends—let’s move forward together, hand in hand, against corruption, for good governance, and to correct the distortions seen in society and politics,” Nepal said.

He also expressed willingness to collaborate with social activists. “They shoulder great responsibility. We want to move forward with all campaigners working for social change, good governance, and the prosperity of the people,” he added.

Similarly, Narayan Kaji Shrestha stated that the new unity should serve as a foundation for comprehensive integration and reorganization of the communist movement. He also called for joint efforts with genuine democrats to defend the constitution, democracy, and national sovereignty, while urging ideological and cultural renewal within the party.

Meanwhile, Bamdev Gautam has claimed that the newly formed party’s membership will reach 10m. He said the party currently has around 1–1.2m members, but expects the number to rise to 10m as they reach out to the public.

Gautam also called for the introduction of a directly elected presidential system and a fully proportional electoral system. “We must end the current system that changes governments month after month and reform the state’s governance structure by establishing a directly elected president and implementing a fully proportional electoral system,” he said.

Following the GenZ movement, CPN (Maoist Center) has embarked on an unusually rapid internal overhaul. Pushpa Kamal Dahal remains in charge, but under immense pressure he has proposed, and begun implementing a full restructuring of the party. In late September, the Maoist Center’s top bodies were dissolved. Through an emergency meeting, the party agreed to disband its Central Committee and all subsidiary committees, and convened a special general convention before the year’s end. 

Under Dahal’s plan, the Central Committee and lower party organs were converted into a “convention organizing committee”, chaired by Dahal himself, to hold an early general convention (anticipated in November–December). In effect, Maoist Centre is resetting its leadership structure. All party committees at the national, provincial and local levels have been dissolved, with a transitional secretariat (composed of existing office‑bearers) managing day-to-day affairs until new leaders are elected. 

In Dahal’s own words “the party cannot function in the old fashion”. He has called for “new procedures”, urging leaders to transform their lifestyles and cultural behaviors. Maoist insiders say the convention will include direct elections for every post (including chairperson) and fundamentally reconstitute the party for the upcoming elections.

Dahal’s proposals explicitly target generational change. He has insisted that younger leaders and marginalized groups take a far larger role. At recent party meetings he has called for maximizing the participation of GenZ youths, women, Dalits and other under‑represented groups in all layers of party structure, including the Central Committee. 

The official party line is that the Maoists have long championed the core GenZ agendas, such as a directly elected executive, a fully proportional electoral system, and an inclusive democracy, and that only by uniting Maoist veterans with the GenZ movement can those demands be met. 

Agni Sapkota, the party spokesperson, has announced that all office‑bearers’ property details will be made public and a special commission will probe leaders’ assets, signaling a new anti‑corruption posture in line with GenZ demands.

Crucially, the Maoist Center has also created or tacitly embraced youth-led caucuses within the party. In mid-October, young Maoist activists announced a new “GenZ Red Force” (or “Red Task Force”) to press the party toward its stated goals. This group, led by Smriti Timalsina, a central member of the All Nepal National Independent Students’ Union (Revolutionary), has appointed coordinators in dozens of districts to expand the party’s grassroots reach and restructure the organization. 

The task force has vowed to “protect the party from leaders who have tried to dominate it for years” by rooting out corruption and promoting new leaders. It has called for investigation into all Maoist leaders’ assets (starting with those currently in power), and even suggesting that top leaders like Dahal serve only one more term before stepping down. 

In effect, young Maoist cadres are policing their own party, aligning with GenZ’s sentiments. As one analyst notes, the Maoists have “pledged to include GenZ members in all committees,” and their new commissions (on party finances, internal discipline, etc.) appear as much about placating youth outrage as about real reform.

However, Vice-chair of All Nepal National Independent Students’ Union (Revolutionary) Biraj Thapa says that GenZ Red Force is an unofficial group and it has no credibility within the party. “They have neither consulted with party leaders nor with the student wing of the party,” he told ApEx.

On policy, the Maoist Centre is likewise repositioning to mirror youth grievances. Dahal has publicly echoed GenZ demands: he repeatedly highlighted the need for a directly elected president and a proportional electoral system as answers to the crisis. In recent rallies, he urged Maoists and GenZ activists to “contest the elections together” so that the protesters’ goals can be achieved. 

The party is effectively trying to invert its image: long seen as a gerontocracy, it now champions youth empowerment and transparency—even if many doubt the sincerity of these moves.

On communication, Maoist leaders have tried to show solidarity with the young protesters. Dahal issued statements supporting the GenZ protests while cautioning against violence, and he has repeatedly framed the Maoist Center as the only major party with a genuine record of progressive reform. The party’s official mouthpiece and youth organizations have used social and mainstream media to court young voters. 

Post‑GenZ reforms in the Maoist Center have been seen as more profound and systemic than other parties. No top leader (including Dahal) was immediately forced out, but the entire party apparatus has been set to be renewed. However, the general convention of the party has always seen the election of Dahal as the party chair. However, the party cadets now talk openly about “new leadership” and rectifying past errors. 

ANNISU (Revolutionary) Vice-chair Thapa says this is the high time to listen to the youth voices in the party and cash in on the momentum of the GenZ movement. “This movement has marked time to restructure the party wing and sister organizations,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Maoist Center, along with the CPN (Unified Socialist) and six other parties, has signed an agreement on party unification. The chairpersons of these parties signed the agreement after reaching a consensus on an 18-point proposal.

Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Coordinator of the CPN (Maoist Center) general convention organizing committee, has highlighted the importance of enhancing mutual respect, social harmony, and cooperation among progressive forces.

On the occasion of Chhath, a significant festival of public faith, social unity, and gratitude towards nature, he conveyed his greetings to all Nepali brothers and sisters both at home and abroad, stating, 'I believe that by fostering mutual respect, social harmony, and cooperation among progressive forces, we can collectively advance towards creating a prosperous, just, and socialist Nepal.'

In the current challenging political, economic, and social landscape, the message of self-confidence, patience, and optimism that Chhath embodies has become increasingly vital, he remarked.

The former Prime Minister added, “May the Chhath festival illuminate the darkness within nature and humanity, bringing forth light, purity, and positive energy in everyone. I earnestly wish for a new era of peace, prosperity, and stability in the nation.”

Celebrated as the principal festival of Madhesh-Terai, Chhath is intricately linked with our culture, traditions, labor relations, and everyday life. It enhances the bond between humans and nature, promoting awareness of coexistence, balance, and self-purification.

The CPN (Maoist Center) has dissolved its Central Committee (CC) and decided to convene the party's general convention by mid of this December.

The two-day-long CC meeting of the party held in the capital city made this decision, party's Spokesperson Agni Prasad Sapkota shared.

The meeting has entrusted the responsibility of coordinator of the general convention organizing committee to party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal. 

The existing CC members will be the general convention organizing committee members.  

Sapkota said that a secretariat comprising the sitting office-bearers will be formed for conducting the party's general convention and run the party's daily activities. 

Likewise, the Maoist Center has decided to ensure maximum participation of Gen-Z in the party's general convention, according to Sapkota. 

Furthermore, the party has decided to form a commission to probe the property details of the party leaders and the probe would be carried out from the party's office-bearers. 

In his concluding remarks at the CC meeting, Chairman Dahal announced to make the property details of all leaders public and form a commission for the investigation of property details.   

Sapkota mentioned that the party would review the operation modality of the party central office, leaders' secretariat and their family management affairs.

As decided by the CC meeting, the Maoist Center would advance the unification process with the likeminded political forces by concluding that the national sovereignty and democracy were at peril.

Similarly, the CC meeting has decided to fully prepare for the upcoming elections slated for March 5. 

At the CC meeting, 10 separate groups were formed to discuss Chairman Prachanda's political report and the conclusions of the groups were shared at the meeting. 

According to Sapkota, the team leaders of all 10 groups seconded the political report tabled by Chairman Dahal.

Likewise, Dahal asserted that the party cannot function in the old fashion and called for embracing new procedures and manners.   

The Maoist Centwr Chairman also directed the leaders to make transformations to their lifestyle and cultural behaviours. 

Despite increasing calls from both within and outside their ranks, Nepal’s major political parties — the Nepali Congress, CPN-UML, and CPN (Maoist Center) — are unlikely to witness any immediate changes in their top leadership.

The recent Zen-Z protests have triggered widespread debate about the need for generational leadership change in Nepal’s political landscape. Many argue that in order to remain relevant, party heads should promptly hand over leadership to younger figures. There have been growing demands for the resignation of key leaders: Sher Bahadur Deuba (Nepali Congress), KP Sharma Oli (CPN-UML), and Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ (CPN-Maoist Center), the first, second and third largest party in Parliament. 

While Oli and Dahal have recently emerged from Nepal Army protection to resume public statements, Deuba — who sustained serious injuries during the protests — remains under treatment in army barracks. Despite the pressure, a leadership transition seems unlikely, as second-rung leaders in all three parties strongly oppose the idea. According to its statute, the Nepali Congress is set to hold its general convention next year to elect new leadership. Deuba, who has already served two terms (2016–2021 and 2021–2026), is not eligible to contest again. However, due to the interim government’s announcement of elections on March 5 next year, the chances of holding an early convention appear slim.

It remains uncertain whether the Nepali Congress will participate in the upcoming elections. Deuba and his spouse were severely beaten and their house burned during the protests, which likely strengthens his resolve not to resign before the general convention, regardless of the cost. At its first Central Committee (CC) meeting following the protests, the party chose not to appoint an acting president and instead decided to wait for Deuba’s recovery. Despite internal calls to convene a special general convention, the CC rejected that option. The meeting concluded that the dissolution of Parliament was unconstitutional and emphasized building a consensus with other parties for its revival.

Within the CPN-UML, although there are minor voices opposing Oli’s continued leadership, there is no significant pressure for him to resign. The party’s statute convention, held just before the protests, removed both the 70-year age limit andterm limits, paving the way for Oli to lead the party for a third consecutive term. The UML’s next leadership election is scheduled for next year, but the ongoing constitutional and political crisis may delay the convention. Moreover, there is currently no consensus on a potential successor should Oli step down. Similarly, the CPN (Maoist Center) is preparing for its general convention, but Prachanda is also unlikely to relinquish leadership. At a recent party meeting, senior leader Janardhan Sharma challenged Dahal’s leadership, but he was quickly rebuked and isolated by many within the party.  

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal said that a new party office would be constructed soon in a grand manner.

He said so after visiting the party office in Parisdanda on Tuesday. The office was set on fire during the Gen Z protests.

During the protests, the army rescued Dahal, who is also a former Prime Minister, and provided security after the protesters started setting fire to the homes of the leaders of both the ruling and opposition parties. 

Dahal returned to the party office after the situation started limping back to normalcy.

Party Vice Chairman Agni Sapkota among leaders had also reached the party office. 

Protesters vandalized and set fire to the house of CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal in Khumaltar on Tuesday.

Protesters also set fire to and vandalized the residence of government spokesperson and Minister of Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung.

Lalitpur Police Spokesperson Chakraraj Joshi informed Annapurna Post, sister publication of The Annapurna Express, that the protesters set fire to and vandalized Minister Gurung's residence in Sunakothi, Lalitpur.

According to him, the fire has already been taken under control.

Protesters hurled stones and set fire to Minister Gurung's residence during the protest of Gen Z.

According to Apil Raj Bohra, spokesperson at the District Police Range, Kathmandu, protesters have been demonstrating in almost all the places.

He said that the protesters are also demonstrating in front of the residence of CPN-UML Chairman and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in Balkot.

Likewise, protesters are also protesting near the residence of Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba in Budhanilkantha.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said the boundary issues including Kalapani-Lipulek should be resolved based on mutual dialogue and agreement.

Speaking briefly with journalists at Biratnagar Airport today, Chair Dahal, also the former Prime Minister, reminded that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed commitment in the past to resolve border issues involving Kalapani, Lipulek and Limpiyadhura.

The Maoist Center Chair said that he had clearly stated during his visit to India as Prime Minister that the relationship with the neighbour cannot be cordial without resolving the border issues.

"During my latest visit to India as Prime Minister, a 'press briefing' was held where the issue of the border dispute was discussed, and Indian Prime Minister Modi expressed his commitment to resolving the remaining border issues through dialogue," former PM Dahal said.

Chairman Dahal suggested to the government to initiate a dialogue process with the neighbouring friendly nation India to resolve the border issues between the two countries.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has vowed to dismantle factionalism in the party. He also claimed that public trust was growing in the party. 

In an audiovisual message to the full meeting of the party's Karnali Province, Chairman Dahal reminded that the Standing Committee meeting of the party had made a resolution to make the party strong and unified by ending groupism, anarchy and conflict in the party. 

Dahal characterized the victory of party leaders at local levels, student unions and the Nepal Mountaineering Association as the symbol of rising public trust in the party, according to Dahal's personal secretariat. 

Visiting Foreign Secretary of India Vikram Misri paid a courtesy call on CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal on Sunday.

The meeting was held at Chairperson Dahal's personal residence in Lalitpur, according to Dahal's secretariat.

During the meeting, they exchanged views on various dimensions of Nepal-India relations. 

Foreign Secretary Misri is currently in Kathmandu on a two-day official visit at the invitation of Nepal's Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that his party has not prioritized the issue of joining the government.

Talking to the media in Chitwan today, the Maoist Center Chairman argued that some people were making interpretations as if the Maoist Center was expecting to join the government while the party was criticizing the wrongdoings of the government. 

"This government is not performing well. We should not interpret as if we are willing to join the government while raising issues about the government's performance. We are not expecting to join the government. We are not concerned about this," the Maoist Center Chairman elaborated. 

On the occasion, he said that his party would resume the party strengthening campaign along the Mid-Hill Highway after a month adding that the party would push for new agendas after holding its central committee meeting. 

"So, we have oriented our party to listen to the people's voices now instead of the government. The campaign is being resumed to address the people's concerns," Prachanda stated. 

Likewise, the Maoist Centre Chairman shared that his party was intact after the recently concluded standing committee meeting and the meeting's decisions would be firmly implemented.

In a separate context, he voiced support for expediting the construction works of the Gautam Buddha International Cricket Stadium in Bharatpur.

For more than a decade, Nepali politics has been defined by three dominant figures: KP Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal. As party chiefs and multiple-time prime ministers, they have established themselves as indomitable forces. Among the three, it now seems almost certain that Oli and Dahal will retain control of their respective parties for at least the next five years—if not longer.

In the past two weeks, the CPN-UML and CPN (Maoist Center) held their Central Committee and Standing Committee meetings, respectively. The outcomes of these meetings will have far-reaching implications, particularly regarding leadership transitions. Both Oli and Dahal have further solidified their grip by weakening and isolating potential rivals. These developments starkly contrast with the widespread public desire, especially among the youth, for a generational change in leadership.

A significant section of Nepal’s youth continues to call for immediate leadership renewal. Many believe that since the same leaders have held sway over both party and government for more than three decades and failed to deliver, new leaders should be given a chance. Having become prime minister multiple times, these leaders have used the power and resources of the state to entrench their positions. Ministerial portfolios and key appointments were handed to loyalists, while dissenting voices were sidelined.

There have also been instances where state law enforcement agencies were allegedly used to harass internal party opponents. As a result, many young leaders have either aligned themselves with top leaders or remained silent, compromising the core values of intra-party democracy and leadership handover.

The internal dynamics of major parties tell a different story altogether. Youth leaders of NC, UML and Maoist Center—who once demanded a leadership transition—are now retreating from those positions. In recent Central and Standing Committee meetings, not only did they refrain from calling for change, but many also openly endorsed the current leadership.

The UML’s Central Committee meeting cleared the way for Oli to lead the party for a third consecutive term. The party decided to amend its statute, removing the 70-year age limit and the two-term cap tailored specifically to facilitate Oli’s continuation. But more than just a policy shift, both senior and youth leaders publicly declared that there is “no alternative” to Oli. Even former President Bidya Devi Bhandari’s attempt to challenge Oli by reentering active politics was thwarted; the party revoked her general membership for doing so.

Oli is now virtually assured to be re-elected party chairman at the UML’s 11th General Convention, expected later this year. Party leaders argue that Oli's leadership is essential to securing victory in the 2027 elections. In reality, he may continue leading the party as long as his health allows. Since taking the helm in 2015, Oli has consolidated power, sidelined rivals, and built a loyal inner circle. Two pivotal moments helped him secure dominance: the departure of senior leaders like Madhav Kumar Nepal and Jhala Nath Khanal, and the failed leadership challenge by Bhim Rawal, who was eventually expelled. That episode sent a clear message: challenging the leadership comes with consequences. More recently, Brinda Pandey and Usha Kiran Timalsina were suspended for six months for voicing dissent, reinforcing the party’s intolerance for internal opposition.

A similar scenario unfolded in the Maoist Center’s Standing Committee meeting. Senior leader Janardhan Sharma raised the issue of leadership change, only to be rebuked by nearly the entire committee. Out of 50 members, just three supported his proposal that Dahal, who has been at the helm since the 1980s, should begin transitioning party leadership to the next generation. Rather than supporting Sharma, other members criticized him. The party issued a warning that no leader should make public statements against its leadership. “There is a growing tendency to speak against party leadership and violate party discipline,” said Maoist leader Haribol Gajurel. 

The situation in the NC remains uncertain. Party President Deuba is unlikely to amend the party statute to pursue a third term. Leaders Shekhar Koirala and Gagan Thapa appear poised to contest the presidency. A third candidate from the Deuba camp may also run, while other senior leaders, who lack serious electoral prospects, may enter the race merely to secure bargaining positions in the party or government. Despite this, Deuba remains a strong presence, and the party's top leadership appears to be consolidating its hold.

Meanwhile, in the CPN (Unified Socialist), a breakaway faction of UML, Madhav Kumar Nepal maintains tight control despite facing corruption allegations. He has publicly warned senior leader Jhala Nath Khanal to leave the party for speaking against him. Despite mounting pressure, Nepal has refused to hand over the reins to a younger generation.

With these developments, the debate around leadership handover in major Nepali parties has significantly lost momentum. Over the years, these senior leaders, each of whom has held the prime ministership multiple times, have consistently used state resources to strengthen their internal party positions and marginalize opposition. With youth leaders increasingly dependent on the senior leadership for political opportunities and resources, they remain unable, or unwilling, to mount a meaningful challenge.

Deputy General Secretary of the CPN (Maoist Centre), Janardhan Sharma, has challenged Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s monopoly and continued leadership of the party. However, most members of the party’s Standing Committee have sided with Dahal, leaving Sharma politically isolated.

Sharma had hoped for internal support to break Dahal’s long-standing grip on the party. Instead, colleagues have urged him to issue a self-criticism for making internal matters public. His call for leadership change has now cost him his standing within the party. Like in the CPN-UML, senior Maoist leaders argue that Dahal should continue leading the party, citing his central role in the armed insurgency, the peace process, and the constitution-drafting effort.

Only a handful of leaders, such as Ram Karki and Parshuram Tamang, have echoed Sharma’s call for change. Both have proposed that Dahal assume a ceremonial role, transferring executive powers to the younger generation. Karki, in particular, has proposed a rotational leadership model, arguing that transitions in communist parties are often problematic. He cited historical examples, noting that even leaders like Lenin and Mao struggled with succession. Dahal, who has been at the party’s helm since the 1980s, shows no indication of stepping down.

“We should establish a leadership transition system while Chairperson Dahal is still healthy and active,” Karki said, emphasizing that his proposal does not seek to remove Dahal, but to place him in a respected role while others assume executive authority.

With party elections approaching, it is now almost certain that Dahal will be re-elected as chairman. Party leaders have warned against making statements that could undermine party unity. Dahal himself has accused "reactionary forces" of conspiring to divide the party since it entered mainstream politics in 2006. Earlier, he had challenged Sharma to leave the party if dissatisfied with his leadership.

A few weeks ago, Sharma made waves by saying that, with the exception of Manmohan Adhikari, all top communist leaders had accumulated significant wealth. At a party meeting, Sharma stated he was willing to self-criticize for his public remarks, on the condition that Dahal also take responsibility for the party’s collective failures.

He also proposed convening a special convention to elect new leadership. He accused Dahal of spreading rumors of a party split to suppress dissent. “We once had three million members. That has dropped to just one million. The leadership should self-criticize for that,” Sharma said. “If speaking about party reform violates policy, I’m ready to face the consequences.”

During the insurgency, leaders Mohan Baidya and Baburam Bhattarai had also challenged Dahal. Baidya left in 2012 to form a separate party, and Bhattarai followed in 2015 to establish a socialist party. Since then, Dahal has enjoyed a largely unchallenged monopoly. Narayan Kaji Shrestha briefly attempted to build a rival faction but lacked broad support, having joined the Maoist party only in 2009.

In recent years, Sharma has emerged as the most vocal challenger to Dahal’s leadership, but his efforts have so far been undermined by the lack of internal support. In response, Dahal has focused on unifying communist parties to consolidate his position. He is in talks with CPN (Unified Socialist) led by Madhav Kumar Nepal and has also reached out to smaller leftist groups.

Meanwhile, internal rivalries among second-rung leaders like Shrestha, Sharma, Agni Sapkota, and Barshaman Pun have only reinforced Dahal’s position, as none are willing to back each other as the next leader. They all seem more comfortable working under Dahal’s leadership.

At 70, Dahal has given no indication of retiring. The CPN-UML’s recent decision to remove the term limit for its top leader has created a favorable environment for Dahal to continue. As things stand, both KP Oli and Dahal are expected to remain at the top of their respective parties for at least another 5–10 years. In contrast, Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba is set to retire in 2027, as party rules bar him from seeking a third term.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has pointed out the need of taking labor and production together by building strong relationships with the people.

Inaugurating the 'YCL in labor and production' campaign organized by YCL Nepal Central Committee at Balkumari ground of Sunakothi in Lalitpur today, Chair Dahal urged YCL members to help stop possible destruction from incessant rainfall, flood and landslide.

"Conspiracy has been hatched to reverse the change and it can be made unsuccessful. Significant changes can be achieved with participation of youth. It should be forwarded as a campaign", he argued.

Vice-Chairperson Pampha Bhusal, In-charge of Bagmati Province Saral Sahayatri, central members Hari Dahal, Ramkaji Maharjan, among others were present on the occasion. 

YCL Nepal In-Charge Ram Prasad Sapkota 'Deepshikha' shared that the campaign would be launched across the country in Shrawan and Bhadra, adding the campaign has been launched in 50 districts today itself.

YCL Nepal would carry out activities giving priority to production, labor and disaster management, he opined.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said his party is ready to support a constitutional amendment and has proposed a seven-point agenda for it. Speaking during a special address in the House of Representatives on Monday, Dahal expressed dissatisfaction with the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML, saying they had pledged to amend the Constitution when forming the current coalition government but have not acted accordingly.

Leader of main opposition Dahal outlined seven key areas where he believes constitutional amendments are necessary. These include the system of governance, the electoral system, the naming of provinces, and the demarcation of provincial boundaries along with addressing issues of identity and rights. He also emphasized the need to strengthen fiscal federalism, ensure greater inclusivity, and introduce enhanced provisions for social justice.

He said his party is prepared to fully support the government if it proceeds with a constitutional amendment on these issues. “I want to tell the government—if a two-thirds majority is lacking, our party will take responsibility to gather the required support. Move forward with confidence,” Dahal stated.

However, he also emphasized that any amendment must address long-standing dissatisfaction that has existed since the promulgation of the Constitution. He recalled that his party had expressed differing views during the Constitution’s adoption, and those concerns still need to be resolved.

“Does the government have the courage to move ahead with progressive constitutional amendments addressing the system of governance, electoral system and issues of naming and demarcating provinces, as well as ensuring identity, rights, fiscal federalism, better inclusivity and social justice?” he asked.

Dahal warned that Nepal is heading toward a multidimensional national crisis. He accused the government of being influenced by brokers and vested interests. In a special address to the House of Representatives, Dahal said the government has strayed from the commitments made during the Comprehensive Peace Accord and the drafting of the Constitution. “Are we moving forward according to the dreams we saw during the peace process?” he wondered. “Corruption, lawlessness, and systemic disorder have taken root. Public services are difficult to access, and the state has failed to protect marginalized communities.”

He expressed frustration over bills that pass unanimously in parliamentary committees but remain stalled in the House due to “political interference and backstage maneuvering.” He accused the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML of turning the Parliament into a “playground for middlemen” through collusion, calling the trend dangerous for democracy. He further claimed that the government was operating under the influence of brokers and rent-seekers, compromising even regulatory bodies.

Citing several high-profile controversies—including the Bhutanese refugee scam, stock exchange licensing issues, electricity dues waivers, protection of land mafias and questionable appointments—Dahal alleged that governance has been hijacked by vested interests. “The character of this unnatural coalition has been exposed, and the public finds it disgraceful,” he said.

Dahal also questioned whether the government is prepared to ensure transparency in critical areas such as stock exchange licensing and arms procurement by security agencies. “This government is sliding toward the total collapse of good governance,” he warned. “When the state functions under commission deals and broker influence, it becomes a threat to democracy.”

Calling for urgent reforms, Dahal urged the government to prioritize good governance, social justice and economic transformation. Without corrective measures, he cautioned, the country could face growing instability.