Congress meeting calls for reconsideration of alliance with UML and Hindu nation stance

Kathmandu – During the Central Working Committee meeting of the Nepali Congress, discussions arose about the party’s alliance with the CPN-UML and the issue of a Hindu state. Many leaders expressed dissatisfaction, pointing out that the current coalition has not brought the anticipated benefits.

At the start of the meeting, on July 1st, leader Shekhar Koirala expressed disapproval at the Congress’s acceptance of the UML’s leadership. He criticized the decision to accept a UML prime minister after forming an election alliance with the Maoists.

Koirala questioned, “Why did we ally with the Maoists then, and what’s the reason for the current cooperation with the UML? I have always supported the idea of a Congress-UML government, but it should be under Congress leadership. Why did Congress cede leadership to the UML?”

He also highlighted that although there was an agreement for constitutional amendments as per a seven-point pact, the coalition has not progressed accordingly. He urged Party President Sher Bahadur Deuba to provide satisfactory answers about the coalition’s purpose.

It’s not only Koirala who raised concerns. Other leaders also voiced disappointment with the coalition’s performance. General Secretary Bishwaprakash Sharma, speaking recently, called for a review, noting that the government, despite Congress’s significant presence, has failed to meet expectations and gain popularity.

Sharma acknowledged some positive actions by the government but insisted on appreciating them. He said, “We must acknowledge the good work done by the government.”

Former General Secretary Shashank Koirala suggested a reassessment of the coalition, questioning if anyone is truly satisfied with the current government. He also mentioned the need to reconsider the issue of a Hindu state.

Meanwhile, another General Secretary, Gagan Thapa, admitted the coalition government’s ineffectiveness. He suggested either making the current ministers more effective or replacing them to improve government performance.

Leader Prakash Sharan Mahat emphasized returning to the party’s core agenda, noting that falling public support for older parties, including the Congress, is a serious concern amid the rise of new parties.

Mahat stated, “Our party is old, but people are becoming disillusioned with old parties. In this scenario, it’s crucial for the party to seriously consider its waning traditional base. We need to review our stance on the Hindu state and return to our core agenda.”

Central member Chandra Bhandari emphasized the need to rejuvenate the party and engage in discussions on the Hindu state. Another member, Shankar Bhandari, advocated re-evaluating the party’s secular stance in favor of supporting the Hindu nation.

However, leader Krishna Prasad Sitaula opposed returning to the Hindu state agenda without a comprehensive review of the constitution’s implementation, advocating for a thorough review before any discussions.

The meeting is expected to conclude with President Deuba addressing these matters on Monday.