Nepali Communist Party (NCP) leader and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ stated that an immediate merger with the CPN-UML is not on the table due to significant differences between the two parties.
At the launch of the NCP Party Awareness Campaign at its central office in Parisdanda, Kathmandu, Prachanda mentioned that while cooperation on national matters is possible, it does not mean the two parties will unify.
He criticized the UML for allegedly resisting good governance and protecting corrupt interests.
No Immediate Party Merger
Prachanda expressed that cooperation among political parties is feasible when national interests, sovereignty, and democratic rights are at stake. However, any merger with the UML requires careful consideration of their historical, political, and ideological differences.
He noted that the two largest parties in parliament previously collaborated to form a government while promoting good governance, social justice, and prosperity.
“The ideological gaps between the NCP and UML are considerable. We can collaborate on national issues, but this does not imply party unification,” he stated.
Discussions about cooperation among communist parties in Nepal have been frequent.
Accusations Against UML
Prachanda accused the UML of safeguarding corruption and warned that the alliance between the Nepali Congress and UML could lead to various problems for the country. He also criticized their decision to form a government together as contrary to parliamentary values.
“We are committed to combating corruption and advocating for good governance, social justice, and prosperity,” he asserted.
While these critiques are part of Prachanda’s stance, the UML’s response to these allegations remains unclear.
NCP: An Evolution, Not a Dissolution
When asked about the NCP’s identity, Prachanda explained that the party emerged from the merger of 26 communist groups, including the former CPN (Maoist Centre) and CPN (Unified Socialist).
“This was not a dissolution; it was an evolution,” he clarified.
He emphasized that the party aims to unify thoughts, experiences, and contributions from all groups to foster a collective identity.
“Despite predictions that the communist movement in Nepal would fade, history shows it has remained influential during political changes,” he added.
NCP Launches Party Awareness Campaign
These remarks were made during the launch of the NCP Party Awareness Campaign at the party’s central office in Parisdanda.
The campaign seeks to enhance party organization, communicate political views, and raise public awareness on issues like corruption, good governance, social justice, and economic development.
Party leaders have stressed the importance of addressing public concerns and improving organization and communication.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the NCP to strengthen its organization.
Open to Cooperation on National Issues
Although Prachanda indicated that a merger is not imminent, he expressed openness to collaborating with the UML and other political entities on issues concerning national sovereignty, democratic rights, and the country’s interests.
“We aim to work together on shared goals,” he said.
This indicates that while there is potential for cooperation on certain matters, there are no immediate plans for organizational unification.
The relationship between the NCP and UML will hinge on political negotiations, trust, and the ability to bridge their ideological differences.