Nepal’s oldest political party, the Nepali Congress, has officially split into two rival factions, triggering a major political crisis just weeks before the March 5, 2026, general elections.
Deuba vs. Thapa: The Rival Factions
One faction is led by Sher Bahadur Deuba, elected through the 14th General Convention, while the other is led by Gagan Thapa, following a special convention held this week. Both factions are claiming to be the legitimate Nepali Congress.
Disciplinary Actions and Party Control
The Deuba-led faction has suspended Gagan Thapa, Bishwa Prakash Sharma, and Farmullah Mansur from party membership for five years. Their names and photos have also been removed from the party’s official website and Facebook page, which remain under Deuba’s control.
Meanwhile, the Thapa-led faction continues to operate through X (formerly Twitter), sharing information and notices from the special convention. This dual control of online platforms reflects the ongoing power struggle within the party.
Legal and Political Implications
Experts warn that the split could have serious consequences for Nepal’s upcoming elections:
- Election Symbol: Both factions will likely contest for official recognition and party symbols.
- Candidate Nominations: Ticket distribution may become contentious.
- Voter Perception: Confusion among supporters could affect the party’s performance.
The dispute is expected to escalate to the Election Commission and possibly Nepalese courts for resolution.
Nepal’s Political Road Ahead
As the country approaches the March elections, party members and citizens are watching closely. Resolution of the leadership dispute will determine the Nepali Congress’s influence inthe upcoming polls and its ability to unite for the national vote.
