Sher Bahadur Deuba, the former president of the Nepali Congress, did not attend the party’s 15th General Convention, highlighting a significant political shift within Nepal’s oldest democratic party.
Deuba was invited as the chief guest for the convention’s opening ceremony, with a reserved spot on stage and his photo included in the convention logo. Despite these honors, he chose not to attend.
Reports indicate that Congress leaders attempting to deliver the invitation were stopped by security. While some expected Deuba might arrive at the last moment, he remained absent.
A Symbolic Absence
Deuba’s absence is a clear statement regarding his disengagement from party activities. He has been a key figure in the Nepali Congress for nearly sixty years, having served as prime minister five times and holding various ministerial roles. His earlier split from the party in 2059 BS and subsequent return as a central leader adds complexity to his legacy.
This absence signals a significant shift in the party’s political landscape.
Growing Leadership Dispute
The leadership conflict intensified with the rise of the Gen Z movement, where figures like Gagan Thapa openly challenged Deuba’s authority. A special general convention subsequently removed Deuba from his leadership role, electing Gagan Thapa as the new president. However, Deuba’s faction disputes the legitimacy of this decision and continues its operations.
This division has strained established political alliances, with several of Deuba’s former allies now diverging from his path. Meanwhile, the new leadership is crafting its own direction.
Gagan Thapa’s Message
During the convention, Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa addressed Deuba’s absence, emphasizing the importance of tolerance for differing views. He noted that a chair was held for Deuba out of respect for his political contributions, while also arguing that Deuba’s legacy should be evaluated based on the party’s growth.
Thapa’s remarks carry weight, especially given their complicated history, as he was previously expelled by Deuba for advocating a special convention under party rules.
A New Chapter for Nepali Congress
The 15th General Convention marks a pivotal moment for the Nepali Congress as it transitions to new leadership amid ongoing internal conflicts. Deuba’s absence may represent a crucial point in the latter part of his political journey. For the Nepali Congress, this moment signifies the challenge of moving from a long-standing leadership era to a new generation of political figures.
The key question remains: can the party resolve its internal disagreements and emerge united, ready to move past leadership disputes?