Kathmandu — The Election Commission of Nepal has officially recognized the leadership of Gagan Kumar Thapa as the chairman of the Nepali Congress Central Working Committee, following the party’s second special general convention.

This decision settles a major political dispute within the party and confirms Thapa’s leadership ahead of the upcoming general election cycle.

Election Commission Grants Official Status to Thapa Group

The Election Commission’s ruling formally grants recognition to the group led by Gagan Thapa, making his faction the legally legitimate leadership of the Nepali Congress after the special general convention.

This marks a significant political development, as internal disagreements over leadership had persisted for months.

Gagan Thapa Responds to the Decision

Speaking to OnlineKhabar soon after the Commission’s announcement, Thapa expressed gratitude and said he accepted the decision in a “very natural and positive way.”

He said the Commission’s decision was consistent with party rules and the Constitution of Nepal. Thapa emphasized that the Nepali Congress leadership change was lawful and constitutional, reinforcing faith in democratic institutions.

Appeal for Unity After Internal Disagreements

Thapa acknowledged that some senior leaders, including former deputy chairman Purna Bahadur Khadka, had threatened nationwide protests if the Commission did not side with their faction. He said such sentiments were expressed out of frustration but insisted that all party members should now respect the constitutional decision and move forward.

He stressed that disagreements are normal in politics, but once a lawful decision is made, the party should accept it.

Court Challenges and Party Environment

Some political figures had even floated the idea of taking the matter to the Supreme Court of Nepal. Thapa urged against prolonged legal battles, saying that the party’s democratic process should not be overshadowed by internal conflict.

“This is not a party split; it’s a democratic leadership transition,” he told reporters.

On Former Chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba

Thapa addressed questions about his predecessor, Sher Bahadur Deuba, saying the party always showed respectful conduct toward Deuba and encouraged him to take a step back. He described Deuba as a vital mentor and said the party would continue to benefit from his experience and guidance.

Ticket Distribution and Party Structure

When asked about ticket distribution for upcoming elections, Thapa said the party is working to complete the process fairly and transparently. He also noted that recommendations for candidacy are already being recorded from all 165 constituencies.

Thapa assured that party decisions on tickets would not be based on personal factions.

Addressing Allegations of “Conspiracy”

Opposition leader Shekhar Koirala described the special general convention as influenced by “external elements.” Thapa responded that such remarks stem from disappointment and do not represent the views of most party workers.

He called such accusations disrespectful to thousands of loyal party members and urged unity.

Comparisons with Other Parties’ Internal Disputes

Thapa was asked about comparisons with leadership conflicts in other major parties like the Communist Party of Nepal (UML). He said internal disagreements are common in many political groups, but the Nepali Congress had completed its election process smoothly and within constitutional norms.

Thapa’s Leadership Vision

Thapa said replacing long‑standing political figures is a healthy aspect of democracy and reflects the desire for renewal among Nepalese voters. He pledged to work constructively with other parties based on mutual respect and constitutional values.

Next Steps: Regular General Convention and Election Preparations

With the special general convention now officially recognized, Thapa said the party is preparing for the regular general convention in the month of Baishakh. He also noted that work on candidacy recommendations will continue alongside election preparations.

Also Read: Nepali Congress Splits Into Two Rival Factions Ahead of Elections 2082