In a move that has sent shockwaves through Nepal’s political landscape, former Prime Minister and veteran Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba has officially decided not to contest the upcoming House of Representatives election from Dadeldhura. The decision, finalized around midnight on January 19, marks the end of a 35-year undefeated streak in the district he has represented since 1991.
According to party-level discussions and political developments, Deuba’s decision marks a significant shift in Nepal’s electoral politics, as Dadeldhura has long been considered his stronghold. His absence from the constituency has sparked discussion within political circles and among voters about future leadership and candidate selection.
A Generational Shift in the Nepali Congress
The decision comes after a special general convention where Gagan Thapa was elected as the new Party President. According to internal sources, the move is part of a broader generational transfer within the Nepali Congress. While Deuba initially sought to contest one final time, the new leadership led by Thapa and Vice-president Bishwa Prakash Sharma successfully pushed for a transition toward younger candidates.
New Leadership for Dadeldhura
The Nepali Congress has officially passed the Dadeldhura ticket to Nain Singh Mahar, former president of the Nepal Student Union. This selection ends weeks of speculation regarding who would fill the void left by Deuba in a constituency long considered his personal fortress.
Sher Bahadur Deuba has represented Dadeldhura in Parliament for decades and played a major role in national politics, including serving as Prime Minister several times. Political analysts view this move as part of a broader transition within the party, possibly making space for new leadership in the district.
More details are likely to emerge as parties finalize their candidates and election schedules are clarified.
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