Tensions within Nepal’s powerhouse Nepali Congress have escalated dramatically, propelling a legitimacy dispute straight to the Supreme Court. Following the Election Commission’s validation of Gagan Thapa’s leadership, Sher Bahadur Deuba’s faction fired back Saturday with plans for an immediate court challenge.
The flashpoint was the Commission’s recognition of Thapa’s central committee, chosen at an unauthorized special convention spanning January 11-14. Deuba’s group contends this contravenes foundational laws and party rules, with their evidence allegedly overlooked in a hasty judgment.
Through an official release, they instructed acting head Purna Bahadur Khadka to petition the apex court posthaste—possibly Sunday—while exploring further remedies. This comes amid calls for pre-election cohesion.
Thapa’s camp, in its Saturday huddle of the new committee, advocated for solidarity facing March 5 polls. Spokesperson Devraj Chalise noted appeals for unity among ranks and an outreach to Deuba for a symbolic elder statesman position.
Critically, the January 20 FPTP nomination deadline hangs like a sword. No interim relief means Thapa controls the process, marginalizing Deuba’s supporters. Proportional representation rosters are already filed.
Nepal’s parliament features 275 seats, split between 165 FPTP direct contests and 110 list-based proportional allocations. This judicial precipice underscores the fragility of party unity in Nepal’s multiparty democracy, with the court’s ruling set to pivot power dynamics profoundly.