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Addressing the House of Representatives on Thursday, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the leader of the main opposition party, the CPN (Maoist Centre), started his speech by expressing dissatisfaction at the absence of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and senior leaders from the ruling party, the CPN-UML. 

Dahal remarked that, as per parliamentary traditions, when a leader of the opposition addresses the House, it is customary for the leader of the largest party and the Prime Minister, to be present. While Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba arrived a bit late, Prime Minister Oli was notably absent.

During an hour-long speech, Dahal voiced his concern regarding the government’s recent decision to issue multiple ordinances. He questioned the constitutional validity of such ordinances as they were brought forward just six before the Parliament was due to convene. 

The former prime minister accused the government of taking a shortcut in issuing ordinances and claimed that it demonstrated a lack of proper intention and transparency. He raised questions about the necessity of such ordinances, especially considering that the ruling parties had previously boasted of their strong mandate and two-thirds majority. 

Dahal expressed skepticism over the recent ordinances related to land reforms. He questioned whether the new land-related ordinances would ease the process of granting land rights to marginalized communities, including Dalits, indigenous people, and squatters. He warned that the amendments might complicate matters rather than solve them. Dahal also highlighted the discrepancies between the government’s actions and the promises made regarding land rights, emphasizing that the new policies appeared to favor the wealthy and urban elites over the rural poor.

“These amendments seem to benefit the land mafia and real estate developers, while leaving the poor and marginalized people struggling for their basic rights,” he noted.

A significant portion of Dahal’s address was dedicated to the government’s social media regulation bill. He said that while he had long been aware of Prime Minister Oli’s intentions regarding social media regulation, the tacit support of other ruling parties, especially the Congress, to the controversial bill was alarming.

He questioned Congress’s alignment with the government’s move and said, “I know Oli’s intentions, but how can you support such a bill now? Yesterday, you stood against such measures, and today you are supporting them.” He asked the Congress leaders if they really want a country where a citizen is barred from asking questions, from holding government to account.

He accused the government of trying to move forward in an authoritarian manner and intentionally causing distress to the citizens. He added that the government’s political retribution and the misuse of state power had become commonplace

In an attempt to defend himself from allegations related to the controversial ‘Shera Durbar’ incident in Nuwakot, Dahal challenged the government to investigate his possible involvement. “If I am involved in the Shera Darbar case in any way, let the investigation begin,” he said. He further claimed that the government was using the issue to tarnish his reputation, with an aim to find some link, no matter how tenuous, to attack him and his party.

 “The government has been working hard to frame me in this case,” Dahal said.

The case involves the alleged illegal possession of land in Nuwakot, which is thought to have been occupied by Dahal’s former private secretary. Following a prolonged investigation, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police has concluded that the land should be returned to the government.

Dahal also accused the government of causing hardship to the citizens. He expressed frustration over the government’s tendency to press serious charges even in situations where a simple resolution could have been found. “In situations where things could be settled through discussions, citizens are being shackled and dragged from one district to another, with severe charges being placed. Is this arrogance of power, or fear of the people?”

He also accused the government of trying to move forward in an authoritarian manner and intentionally causing distress to the citizens. He added that the government’s political retribution and the misuse of state power had become commonplace.

He linked this to the incident involving the Pathibhara Cable Car dispute, where the police had fired shots, and the introduction of the social media regulation bill, which he argued was an attempt to legally control freedom of expression. “What is this? Are you above the people’s sovereignty? Are you above the constitution? Are you the masters and the citizens your slaves?”

Further criticism was directed at the government’s treatment of Rabi Lamichhane, the leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), who was suspended from Parliament despite being released on bail by the court. Dahal raised concerns about the political motives behind Lamichhane’s suspension, accusing the government of orchestrating a political revenge campaign.

He addressed the Speaker of the House, requesting a re-evaluation of Lamichhane’s suspension, calling into question its fairness and constitutional grounds. “Even after being released on bail, how can Lamichhane’s suspension be justified? We need to reconsider this issue in light of the constitutional principles of justice,” he urged the Speaker.

Dahal emphasized that the current government’s strength was evident when it came to pursuing political revenge. He argued that the opposition leaders were being unfairly painted as villains despite the lack of evidence.

Lawmaker Sobita Gautam from RSP also expressed regret over the decision to suspend Lamichhane and urged for a swift correction of the decision. “My party and I deeply regret this decision, and I request the Parliament Secretariat to correct it as soon as possible,” Gautam said. “I humbly request that the suspension be revoked.”

“Parliamentary rules have provisions for suspension only if an MP is sent to jail by a court. But the suspension notice was posted without a court case,” she said. “The law was meant to prevent MPs from being targeted unnecessarily.”

Similarly, Sumana Shrestha, MP from RSP raised concerns about the social media bill, which has been registered in Parliament, and highlighted the growing protests from youth against the bill. She brought the issue to the government’s attention. “Protests have started on social media since yesterday. There is a growing voice against the social media bill the government has registered,” she said. “Will the government listen to this voice? I am raising this issue to attract the government’s attention.”

She also suggested engaging the youth for further discussions on the bill. “Invite the youth and let them discuss. We’ve seen that the bill can pass through this House even if they are pushed. What is content creation? The government has brought this bill without even understanding basic social media matters,” Shrestha said.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has accused the government of issuing ordinances that serve the interests of specific groups rather than the public.

In his address to the House of Representatives (HoR) today, he criticized the proposed amendments to the Land and National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act. He argued that these amendments would make it more difficult for landless people and Dalits to obtain land registration certificates.

The main opposition party leader stated that the amendments would curtail the rights of landless individuals and those residing unsystematically on land.

He proposed revising the "illogical" systems of land classification and evaluation when providing land to the unsystematic dwellers. He suggested lowering charges for land used by impoverished, rural citizens or for agricultural purposes, while increasing fees for land owned by wealthier people in urban areas and those used for residential purposes.

Dahal expressed concern that the government, through these ordinances, could promote big real estate businesses and land mafias, thus curtailing farmers' rights to sell their land by dividing into plots. He also claimed that the ordinance failed to address the land issues related to the Swargadwari Guthi.

Furthermore, he voiced dissatisfaction with the government's decision to amend the Black-marketing and Some Other Social Offences and Punishment Act, 2032 BS (1975), removing the provision that prevents traders from earning more than a 20 percent profit on goods. He called this move unjust.

He also criticized the proposed amendment to the Health Insurance Act, 2074 BS, claiming it undermines the independence of the Insurance Act. Additionally, he objected to the proposed revision of the Yogmaya Ayurvedic University Act, 2079 BS, which he believed contradicted the university's historic legacy.

The former Prime Minister also questioned why the government had not introduced these ordinances in parliamentary committees for open dialogue when they were under consideration in the Parliament. He expressed concern over the 'suspension' of the previous government's 'campaign' for economic prosperity, good governance, and social justice.

The opposition leader also voiced concern about the treatment of Rabi Lamichhane as the "biggest cooperative fraud," despite the fact that his direct involvement in withdrawing cooperative funds has not been proven. He questioned the constitutional grounds and the justice behind Lamichhane's suspension as a lawmaker, when the court had granted him bail.

He urged the government not to amend the Constitution in ways that violate historic and significant agreements among political parties. "If we need to revise the Constitution, let's switch to a fully proportional electoral system, ensuring 50 percent women's participation and representation of Dalits based on population and preferential rights. Let's move toward a directly elected executive system," he said.

He also called for a fair investigation into the Shera Durbar (Palace) land grab case in Nuwakot, which has been connected to his name. "From this rostrum, I urge the government to begin an investigation, and if my name is involved, let the investigation start with me," he said.

In an effort to strengthen its position, the CPN (Maoist Center) is preparing to revive some radical agendas, including the right to self-determination and ethnicity-based autonomous provinces—issues the party abandoned during the constitution drafting process in 2015. A political document presented by Maoist Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal during the party’s Central Committee meeting proposes reactivating the ethnic and caste-based structures established during the insurgency and the subsequent peace process. These structures were compromised during the constitution drafting process to reach consensus with other parties.

The Maoist party had originally proposed 14 autonomous provinces based on ethnic groups. However, this proposal was strongly opposed by the Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-UML, who argued it could lead to national disintegration. As a result, the Maoists were forced to compromise. “The issue of identity-based federalism has been overshadowed, and we must apologize for this,” Dahal said at the ongoing Central Committee meeting. He emphasized the need to rebuild relationships with indigenous communities, Janajatis, and other marginalized groups—the party’s core constituencies—while reviving regional and caste-based party organizations.

Dahal has also expressed that the party should collaborate with revolutionary forces rather than parliamentary parties like the NC and UML. However, many Maoist leaders argue that Dahal raises such radical agendas only when relegated to the opposition bench in Parliament. A senior leader remarked, “Once he gains power through alliances with the NC or UML, he completely forgets these communities and even embraces rightist and Hindu fundamentalist agendas.”

From 2008 until the dissolution of the Constituent Assembly, the Maoists, then the largest party, vigorously championed these issues. However, the party gradually abandoned them after its relegation to third place in the 2013 Constituent Assembly elections. Dahal has now urged party members to apologize and self-criticize for not prioritizing these agendas after the constitution drafting process. Despite becoming prime minister twice post-constitution promulgation—in alliance with the NC and UML—Dahal did little to address these issues.

The political document also outlines the party's position on constitutional amendments. The Maoists propose replacing the current system with a directly elected presidential system, a longstanding agenda they have pushed since joining the peace process. Additionally, they are preparing to reiterate their support for a fully proportional representation (PR) electoral system, which other major parties are unlikely to accept. Currently, the electoral system is a mix of PR and First-Past-the-Post (FPTP). The likelihood of major party agreement on adopting full PR remains minimal.

One of Dahal’s key proposals is to increase women’s representation in state organs from the current 33 percent to 50 percent, an initiative aimed at attracting female constituencies. These proposals are part of a broader strategy to revive the party’s waning influence. Despite maintaining its position as the third-largest party in the past two national elections and serving as a decisive force in government formation, the party’s overall strength has diminished. While it retains strongholds in some districts of the far and mid-western regions, its urban presence has weakened. Dahal acknowledges this in his document and proposes a roadmap to rebuild the party’s urban support.

The roadmap includes providing opportunities for youth within the party, increasing membership, maintaining financial transparency, and exposing the current government’s misdeeds. To regain urban support, Dahal emphasizes launching targeted campaigns in Kathmandu Valley, cities, and highway areas. He underscores the importance of establishing a strong presence in the capital, vital for implementing the party’s policies and strategies. Notably, the Maoists failed to secure a single seat in Kathmandu Valley during the 2022 elections, even with an electoral alliance with the NC.

To address urban challenges, Dahal’s document proposes tackling issues such as urbanization, traditional and cultural heritage preservation, waste management, water supply, drainage, and public transportation. He recalls the party’s failed 2009 urban revolt, which was quickly abandoned following protests from Kathmandu’s elite, whom he had derisively referred to as “Sukila Mukila.”

While Dahal’s proposals aim to rejuvenate the party, his underlying priority appears to be returning to power and destabilizing the current coalition government. Reports indicate that a faction of NC and Maoist leaders is discussing forming a new alliance. This has led some party leaders to question Dahal’s sincerity in advancing the party’s position. A senior Maoist leader, speaking anonymously, stated, “Once Dahal gains power, he forgets all these agendas and even avoids convening party meetings.”

In his document, Dahal has adopted a tough stance against Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli while maintaining a softer approach toward NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba, reflecting potential power-sharing considerations. Although Dahal and Oli frequently clash publicly, Dahal and Deuba rarely criticize each other in public forums.

Dahal’s proposals reflect an attempt to address both the party’s declining influence and the grievances of marginalized communities. However, internal skepticism remains about his commitment to these agendas, given his track record of abandoning them when in power. The Maoists face significant challenges in rebuilding their urban and national support base, particularly as they compete with stronger, more established parties.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal on Thursday made a pointed statement, accusing Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of “playing the China card” by choosing to visit China before India. In an interview with The Hindu, former Prime Minister Dahal criticized Oli’s upcoming China visit, calling it a deliberate attempt to court Beijing, which he deemed misguided. Dahal also suggested that India-Nepal relations are strained due to the new government’s policies and cautioned that tensions over border disputes could resurface.

Dahal highlighted his own efforts to strengthen India-Nepal ties during his 18-month tenure, which ended in July. Oli is scheduled to travel to Beijing for an official visit in early December, preceded by a preparatory trip by Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba at the end of this month.

Apparently, the planned visit is no music to the ears of New Delhi and other international observers. . Historically, Indian policymakers and think tanks have accused Nepali leaders of leveraging the ‘China card’ to sidestep India’s influence, a notion dating back to 1950. Although Indian analysts often claim Nepal uses its ties with China strategically, Nepali leaders deny this characterization.

Dahal’s comments have drawn sharp criticism from the ruling CPN-UML. Bishnu Rijal, the party’s Central Committee member, labeled Dahal’s remarks as ‘anti-Nepal’ and damaging to the country’s self-esteem, adding that such statements could provoke tensions with neighboring countries. Rijal further claimed that Dahal’s comments reflect frustration over the fall of his government in July and expose his divisive views on Nepal’s two largest neighbors.

Dahal’s statement is also likely to provoke Prime Minister Oli and his coalition partner, the Nepali Congress. Since the promulgation of the 2015 Constitution, Nepal’s political and diplomatic circles have actively debated the ‘China card’ issue, with leaders reiterating that Nepal aims to maintain balanced relations with both India and China.

As Oli’s administration accelerates preparations for the China visit, the trip has captured the attention of media and experts in both New Delhi and Beijing. Qian Feng, director at Tsinghua University’s National Strategy Institute, told the Global Times that Nepal’s cooperation with China does not necessarily imply a shift away from India, stressing that ties with both neighbors can coexist harmoniously.

Oli’s agenda for the Beijing trip reportedly includes discussions on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the implementation of previous agreements between Nepal and China.

Nepal’s diplomatic balancing act with India and China isn’t new. Nihar Nayak, an expert on Nepal-China relations, describes in his book Strategic Himalayas how King Mahendra effectively leveraged the ‘China card’ in the 1950s and 60s, a policy later continued by his son, King Gyanendra. Nayak notes that Gyanendra’s tilt toward China, including his moves at the 13th SAARC summit and his arms purchases from China and Pakistan, exemplified efforts to reduce Nepal’s reliance on India. According to Nayak, even some Maoist leaders have attempted to play the ‘China card’ in recent years, albeit unsuccessfully.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has stressed the need to move ahead with firm determination to transform the people's livelihood by safeguarding the rights used by the people given by the Constitution and through their use and progressive revisions. 

In a message today on the occasion of Constitution Day, the Maoist Center Chairman has said that the clear way ahead is to move to the initiative of socialism through good-governance, social justice and prosperity.

He also said that the main purpose of marking the Constitution Day is to unite the nation and people against all sorts of anarchies and totalitarian mentalities.

It was the responsibility of all to further strengthen the constitutionally ensured rights, the former Prime Minister said in his message.

Likewise, Dahal has congratulated and extended best wishes to all Nepalis at home and abroad for their contributions made for the constitution-making processes.

The Maoist Center's Chairman has extended his condolence to those who lost their lives in the People's War, historic People's Movement, Madhes Movement and other movements, and has expressed his highest level of respect to the disappeared, injured and disabled warriors.

Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal have reached Baluwatar to meet Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Thursday.

The three senior leaders held a meeting to discuss contemporary political issues and to consult for the meeting of the Constitutional Council.

The meeting of the Constitutional Council, which was called at 5 pm in Singha Durbar on Wednesday, was postponed.

The meeting of the Constitutional Council was summoned to discuss the new Chief Justice and recommendation of Election Commission commissioners among others, a source said.

There is a constitutional provision that the Prime Minister, the Speaker, the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Chief Justice, the leaders of the main opposition party and the Deputy Speaker should be in the Constitutional Council.

Similarly, the Judicial Council on August 24 had sent the names of eight judges to the Council to recommend the new Chief Justice.

The Constitutional Council meeting was called to discuss the names.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal said that his party has witnessed people's attraction throughout the country.

Welcoming to the new entrants to the party at Ramgopalpur in Mahottari, Chair Dahal claimed attraction to the party has increased due to the performance of the Maoist party-led government and its agenda.

"The Maoist party has been established as a force to fight for identity", he claimed, adding, "With its clear agenda on good governance, social justice and prosperity, the Maoist party has gained attraction among the people across the country".

He said that the country is now running on the agenda of the Maoists from a political point of view. Dahal also argued that the Maoist Center is better than other parties for its novelty in performance in the government.

"The Maoists have put forward all the agendas including political changes on the basis of people's war and people's movement, election to the Constituent Assembly, declaration of republic, constitution making, provision of federalism, proportional and inclusive representation through the constitution," he said.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that the party is not against the Constitution amendment.

Talking to the media at Biratnagar airport today, the leader said, "However any attempts to shrink the rights of the citizens and dismiss the achievements in the name of the Constitution amendment shall not be tolerable for the CPN (Maoist Center)."

He announced that it would not be accepted by the party if any efforts were made to withdraw the provision of proportional representation and inclusion aiming to uplift the suppressed, marginalized and disadvantaged communities. 

The Maoist 'people's war' led to the establishment of the rights of Madhesi, Dalits, Muslims, indigenous and nationalities, he added.

The erstwhile Prime Minister claimed that the party had to exit from power as it initiated a process to take action against corruption and middle persons. "Now, the party has an opportunity to expand its organization, strengthen and rebuild itself."

As the leader of the major opposition, he warned the government not to perform against the interests of the nation and the citizens.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that leadership cannot be simply handed as a gift.

During a press meet organized by the Press Center Banke at Nepalgunj today, he said the party believes in the production of leaders through a system and practices it accordingly.

He said he is not an irreplaceable figure to hold the chair post within the party and is focused on preparing his successor through a system.

He also took the opportunity to assure that the party will remain united, dismissing rumors of a possible split.

The erstwhile Prime Minister also accused the two largest parties: the Nepali Congress (NC) and the CPN-UML of forcefully toppling the government led by him, though he was performing 'well'.

CPN (Maoist Center) Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal has long been known for his contradictory statements and actions, a trait that dates back to the insurgency period. Despite entering peaceful politics in 2006, Dahal has struggled to shed this inconsistent personality, often saying one thing publicly while pursuing a different agenda behind the scenes. This pattern has continued even after his recent departure from power, as he has oscillated between claiming to avoid power and making moves to re-enter government.

Dahal’s recent actions reflect his frustration with the collapse of his government and his determination to regain power. After losing the premiership, Dahal initially declared that he would not seek to become prime minister again during the current parliamentary term, which lasts until 2027. However, it is evident that his primary focus has been to dismantle the coalition between the CPN-UML and the Nepali Congress (NC) and position himself for a return to leadership. 

His efforts to create friction within the ruling coalition are apparent in his recent remarks, where he suggested that the meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba might have unsettled UML Chairperson and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Dahal also hinted that the current coalition, formed between two ideologically different parties, would not last long.

During a special session in Parliament on Tuesday, Dahal accused the government of arrogance and heading in the wrong direction. He criticized the government for serving vested interest groups and mafias instead of the people. 

“I was in favor of giving the government all the benefits of doubt during the honeymoon period. I wanted the first debate on the government to take place in the people's court,” he said. “However, after observing the government’s intentions and direction for over 40 days, I have come to the conclusion that the government is heading towards arrogance and in the wrong direction. It is moving towards the madness of numbers and the misuse of power. It is serving vested interest groups, and even more so, the mafias, rather than the people.”

Dahal also expressed regret for breaking the alliance with the NC last March and stated that his party would not remain a passive witness to the government’s misdeeds. Dahal warned that his party would expose and resist the government’s actions in Parliament, reaffirming their commitment to standing against what they perceive as the government’s misuse of power.  

“Many might wonder how such a small opposition can warn and control a two-thirds majority government. Numerically, they may have two-thirds, but the foundation of the government is based on fear, not trust. The way this government was formed, it was exposed to the people right from the beginning and continues to be exposed,” Dahal said. “The people know whose government this is and why it was formed. The government itself is providing the evidence. So, I urge both well-wishers and opponents not to worry about our numbers. To face the people and the opposition, this government needs honesty, which it lacks.”

The Maois chair also accused the current government of trying to suppress the fake Bhutanese refugee scandal and protect other criminals and tarnishing Nepal’s legal, moral, political, and social reputation internationally. 

“By transferring and investigating the capable and courageous police officers who were investigating such a shameful and disgraceful event, what message are you sending to the rest of the world? With the international community watching so closely, where will this shamelessness lead the country’s reputation?” he said.

Dahal also challenged the leaders of both UML and NC, stating that they should not come to him trying to placate him should this alliance face any challenge. 

Despite his public statements of reluctance to re-enter government, Dahal’s actions suggest otherwise. He has already begun fostering alliances with fringe communist parties, positioning himself for future political maneuvering. 

Within the Maoist Center, there is growing skepticism about Dahal’s commitment to staying out of power. Party members have expressed concerns that the party has lost touch with the people due to its continued focus on securing government positions for a select few leaders. During internal discussions, leaders like Deepak Koirala and Suman Devkota emphasized the need for the party to reconnect with the people and move away from its government-centric approach.

UML General Secretary Shankar Pokharel noted recently that Dahal still harbors hopes of rejoining the government within the next six months. Pokharel suggested that Dahal’s fixation on power could hinder efforts to address pressing national issues, including constitutional amendments. 

Despite the challenges, the NC-UML coalition remains stable, with NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba committed to continuing the alliance. However, the government’s failure to deliver on its promises could lead to dissatisfaction within the NC, though this is unlikely to threaten the coalition as long as Deuba supports it.

In the meantime, Dahal’s rhetoric in Parliament and his behind-the-scenes maneuvers reflect a leader torn between his party’s principles and his desire for power. While he warns the government of impending resistance, his actions indicate a readiness to seize any opportunity to regain political influence, even if it means contradicting his public statements. 

British Ambassador to Nepal Rob Fenn called on CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal on Friday.

In the meeting held at Dahal's residence in Khumaltar, Lalitpur, the Maoist Center Chair informed Ambassador Fenn that the House of Representatives has passed the bill related to transitional justice that emphasizes on victim-friendly justice. He expressed the confidence that the UK Government will extend necessary support for the survivor-friendly justice and respect.

Stating that he had taken the initiative to push forward the TJ bill when he had been heading the government, former Prime Minister Dahal believed it will contribute to world peace as well when the bill is enacted into law, Chair Dahal's Secretariat said.

The Maoist Center Chair also stated that a special initiative was made to strengthen international relations during his premiership, adding Nepal had played a leading role in climate justice, among other sectors.

Chair Dahal on the occasion also expressed his conviction that the British government will address the issues being raised by the Ex-British Gurkha soldiers.

Similarly, Ambassador Fenn expressed his happiness over taking the peace process and bill related to transitional justice to logical conclusion by Nepal, expressing commitment that there would be full support of the UK government for its conclusion.

According to Dahal’s Secretariat, the Ambassador shared that the UK government was always ready to provide necessary support for Nepal.  Stating that British nationals are found interested in Nepali products, he said there could be partnership between the two countries in mutual cooperation and trade.

Expressing happiness over amendment to laws to create investment friendly environment and concluding the investment summit during the term of the then Prime Minister Dahal, Ambassador Fenn expressed the view that there would be his contribution in bringing in foreign investment in Nepal.

Australian Ambassador to Nepal, Felicity Volk, had a farewell meeting with CPN (Maoist Center) Chair and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal on Wednesday.

In the meeting at Dahal's residence in Khumaltar today, Ambassador Volk congratulated Nepal on the completion of the remaining works of the peace process as well as transitional justice, according to Dahal's private secretariat.

Ambassador Volk said that the dignity of Nepal in the international arena has increased due to this initiative.

Former Prime Minister Dahal praised Ambassador Volk's role in strengthening Nepal-Australia relations and wished her success in her further diplomatic career.

In 2009, President Ram Baran Yadav decisively countered Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's ill-advised attempt to dismiss Army Chief Rookmangud Katawal. The reinstatement of the Army Chief led to Dahal’s resignation, which he framed as a defiant stand against external interference, particularly from India. Dahal famously declared that he would engage only with the “masters” (India) and not with the “servants” (Nepali parties).

Fast forward fifteen years, and Dahal, during a party meeting, shifted his blame to the United States, alleging that external powers, including the US, played a role in his recent ouster from the government, along with that of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Since his entry into peaceful politics in 2006, Dahal has frequently made controversial and often unsubstantiated statements, consistently keeping himself at the forefront of national discourse. His rhetoric has often relied on anti-India nationalism as a tool to strengthen his political standing. Today, he appears to be using the same tactic, insinuating that foreign powers orchestrated his dismissal because he resisted their agendas.

Dahal’s self-serving narrative has inflicted more damage on his party and his own reputation than on any external entity. Within the Maoist ranks, there is growing concern that their decade-long armed struggle, which paved the way for republicanism and federalism in Nepal, will be in vain if the party continues on its current path. Yet, this existential threat seems lost on Dahal.

When in opposition, Dahal has a history of making headlines with provocative and unexpected remarks. Despite being out of power for just a month, he has already made a series of statements that have drawn public attention. Among these is his claim that the US was involved in a regime change in Kathmandu. Following the formation of a new government under CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli, Dahal accused forces opposed to good governance of engineering the split within his party.

Recently, Dahal made a surprising announcement that he would not seek the prime ministership until after the 2027 elections, catching even his own party members off guard. He stated, “I will not become prime minister during this tenure of Parliament. I may consider it only if our party emerges as the largest in the 2027 elections.”

During a recent meeting in Koshi province, Dahal admitted to several mistakes, including his failure to prevent the party split, mishandling of the Maoist combatants during peace talks, mismanagement of party cadres, and his decision not to support Girija Prasad Koirala for the presidency. He also indicated a shift in strategy, asserting that his party would contest the next election independently, marking a departure from his previous alliances with UML in 2017 and Nepali Congress in 2022, despite these coalitions failing to halt the party’s decline.

Dahal also hinted at rekindling alliances with fringe communist and non-communist forces, including discussions with former Maoist splinter groups and CPN (Unified Socialist) led by Madhav Kumar Nepal. This stands in stark contrast to his past criticism of these fringe groups while he was in power. Notably, he has revived the agenda of a directly elected chief executive, an idea the Maoists abandoned during the 2015 constitution drafting process, citing that the current parliamentary system has tainted the Maoist party.

Dahal deliberately ‘sowed division’: Sharma 

Within CPN (Maoist Center), Dahal’s leadership is under severe scrutiny. The recent proposal by Maoist Deputy General Secretary Janardan Sharma has sent shockwaves through the party, exposing deep concerns about the party’s direction and leadership. Sharma’s allegations that rumors of party splits were deliberately spread by the leadership have instilled widespread fear among party members and the public.

“The rumors started from Khumaltar (Dahal’s residence), intensified in Baluwatar (Prime Minister’s residence), and escalated further in Pokhara where the party leadership asked members to choose sides,” Sharma’s proposal states. “This sequence of events has created a widespread fear of party division among cadres and the general public.”

Sharma’s proposal criticizes Dahal for sowing division within the party, ignoring crucial discussions during key conventions, and for adopting a royal-like lifestyle that has alienated the party's core supporters.

“Baluwatar has directly named Janardan Sharma as the instigator of the split. This has led to daily phone calls from hundreds of worried party workers and citizens and has become a topic of concern for other political parties, security agencies, and even the bureaucracy,” the proposal claims.

Sharma has questioned why the 8th General Convention was undermined by the announcement of a special convention. He also criticized the leadership for disregarding discussions and opinions expressed during the Statute Convention, questioning why some members were not allowed to speak. He also inquired why propaganda campaigns were orchestrated against him and Barsha Man Pun while the party was in government.

Sharma further questioned why efforts were being made to divide rather than unite leaders at various levels within the party and why parallel committees were being operated by the leadership itself. He also questioned the rationale behind the frequent changes in government coalitions.

Sharma also criticized the party’s failure to implement key policies when it held government power, such as transferring police authority to provinces and supporting local governments. Sharma’s criticism points to a party that is shrinking, losing the trust of the constituencies that once supported it, and failing to fulfill its promises.

He attributed the party’s declining support base to the leadership’s failure to deliver on promises made during their time in government. The proposal highlights that the public disapproves of the leadership’s lifestyle, likened to that of royalty, and the disconnect between the party and its core supporters. Sharma questioned whether the party can rebuild public trust by revisiting and delivering on the issues and slogans it once championed for the people.

Sharma also raised concerns about the leadership’s stance and decisions on several policy matters. He accused the leadership of resisting calls to add ‘Kirant’ to the name of Koshi province. Sharma questioned why proposals to transfer police authority to provinces and shift small and medium-sized projects and budgets to local and provincial governments were not implemented when the party held key government positions. 

He also revealed that he was removed from his work area as a punitive measure, stating, “Despite my four-decade-long loyalty and cooperation with the leadership, my actions are being met with suspicion. The chairperson believes in creating larger conflicts to resolve smaller ones, which is causing significant harm to the party.”

Sharma has proposed dissolving the central committee and forming an interim committee under Chairperson Dahal, with the mandate to hold a convention and elect new leadership through direct elections by a specified date.

Dahal’s recent statements include

• An assertion that an “invisible force” united the NC and UML.
• A claim that a significant nationalist faction exists within UML.
• The suggestion that investigating large corruption cases led to his government’s dissolution.
• A declaration that the Maoists will contest the 2027 election independently.
• An admission of committing “five major blunders.”
• Recognition of the new government’s consensus on the TRC as an achievement.
• His refusal to seek the prime ministership until after the 2027 elections.
• Allegations that extra-regional powers were responsible for his and Sheikh Hasina’s ouster.
• A call to consolidate all fringe communist parties.
• A critique that the existing parliamentary system has corrupted the Maoist party.
• A push for a directly elected President or Prime Minister for greater stability.

Soon after stepping down from power, CPN (Maoist Center) Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal has initiated efforts to engage with fringe communist parties, particularly former Maoist leaders, to strengthen his position in national politics.

It has been observed that Dahal tends to reach out to his former Maoist colleagues, who have formed splinter groups, especially after the major split in the Maoist party in 2012 when senior leader Mohan Baidya established a separate party due to serious ideological differences with Dahal. A few months ago, while still in power, Dahal formed the Samajbadi Manch (Socialist Front), a loose coalition of fringe parties within the government. However, this front remained inactive as Dahal did not perceive any immediate threat to his government after aligning with the CPN-UML four months ago. 

On Tuesday, Dahal convened a meeting that included CPN (Maoist Center), CPN (Unified Socialist), Nepal Communist Party, and Samajbadi Forum. Of these, only the Maoist party led by Dahal and the CPN (Unified Socialist) led by Madhav Kumar Nepal have a presence in the national parliament. The Nepal-led party had supported Dahal during his vote of confidence in Parliament on Friday. The meeting of the Socialist Front has labeled the NC-UML coalition as opaque and unnatural. The four parties view the NC and UML’s plans to amend the constitution with suspicion, fearing that these two parties might regress from the progressive provisions of the 2015 constitution. Consequently, the four parties have formed a task force to thoroughly study the policies and activities of the newly-formed coalition.

For the first time in 10 years, the Maoist party finds itself in the opposition bench, a position it last occupied in 2014 when the NC and UML formed an alliance to deliver the constitution. Since then, the Maoist party managed to remain in power despite multiple major and minor splits. After the promulgation of the new constitution in 2015, Dahal’s long-time comrade Baburam Bhattarai left the party to form a separate faction. Bhattarai has been a vocal critic of Dahal, unlike other Maoist splinter groups, which still regard Dahal as their leader.

Despite maintaining moderate strength through electoral alliances with the NC and UML, the Maoist party’s influence is waning. Party leaders fear that contesting elections without alliances could further weaken their position in the national parliament.

Numerous Maoist party leaders and cadres, who were excluded from benefits during Dahal’s tenure, believe it is crucial for Dahal to reflect on his past decade in power and work toward strengthening the party organization. The Maoist party is steadily losing public support and organizational strength. Officially, Dahal will not become the main opposition leader as he lacks the requisite 65 seats. However, as the third-largest party in Parliament, the Maoists remain a significant opposition force, supported by the fourth-largest party, Rastriya Swatantra Party, which holds 21 seats in Parliament, alongside other fringe parties.

Dahal, according to close associates, will strive to consolidate his power by uniting various Maoist factions, although a formal unification is unlikely. The potential unification could be influenced by shared concerns over war-era human rights violations if the NC and UML join forces. Whether the new government will prioritize transitional justice issues remains uncertain, but these issues could serve to unite the Maoist factions. 

Additionally, Dahal may reach out to political outfits advocating identity politics. As the NC and UML aim to amend the constitution to alter the current electoral system, Dahal and other identity-based groups are likely to vehemently oppose any such change. Consequently, Dahal is expected to lead a front that staunchly resists any attempt to amend the constitution.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has directed the three state security agencies to intensify search operations for individuals who went missing after the two passenger buses plunged into Trishuli river at Simaltal, Chitwan.

The Prime Minister summoned the heads of the security bodies at his private residence in Khumaltar on Sunday to receive updates on the accident.

He urged them to take all necessary measures to search for the missing individuals.

Two passenger buses: one heading to Gaur from Kathmandu (03-001 Kha 2495) and another going to Kathmandu from Birgunj (03-006 Kha. 1516) were swept away by landslide into the Trishuli river on Friday morning at Simaltal in Bharatpur Metropolis-29.

The PM utilized the meeting to express gratitude to the security personnel involved in rescue and relief operations amidst monsoon-triggered incidents nationwide including in Simaltal, risking their lives.

"The bureaucracy and security agencies, as permanent institutions, should commit themselves unreservedly to serving the people, no matter how the political situation is," he stated.

The Rastriya Prajatantra Party has decided not to give a vote of confidence to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

The Parliamentary Party meeting of the Rastriya Prajantra Party held in Singha Durbar on Thursday decided to stand against the vote of confidence, RPP Chief Whip Gyanendra Shahi informed.

The party, however, has not yet decided whether to participate in the new alliance of the Nepali Congress-CPN-UML or not, he further said.

The decision on the same will be made after the formation of a new government, leader Shahi informed.