Internal dynamics within Nepal's largest opposition party are undergoing a significant shift as prominent leader Sujata Koirala publicly aligned herself with Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa. Her stance marks a noticeable divergence from fellow dynasty figures Dr. Shashank Koirala and Dr. Shekhar Koirala, who remain positioned in the opposing faction.
Addressing the party's Central Working Committee meeting on Friday, Koirala emphasized that the younger generation must take the reins to steer the organization forward. She pointed out that Thapa's leadership has generated strong enthusiasm among the country's youth, making his guidance essential for maintaining party relevance.
Admitting her initial reservations regarding Thapa's rise, Koirala noted that his recent efforts to foster inclusivity have won her trust. She cautioned against ongoing internal maneuvers aimed at undermining the organization, advocating instead for a unified general convention to resolve prevailing factional disputes.
Koirala urged all internal groups to exercise flexibility, emphasizing that true party consolidation requires mutual compromise rather than total submission by one side. Directing her message toward former leader Sher Bahadur Deuba, she stated that verbal commitments to unity must now be backed by concrete consensus.
With upcoming elections on the horizon, Koirala stressed that a divided front risks political setback. She called on the dissident faction to accept Thapa’s leadership, working collectively to keep the party on a stable trajectory.
