Kathmandu-The CPN (Maoist Centre)’s crucial Standing Committee meeting is concluding today after multiple days of intense discussions that revealed deepening divisions within the party leadership. The meeting, which began on Friday, saw Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ preparing to formally respond to various concerns raised by committee members regarding party direction and leadership.
The gathering took a contentious turn when Vice-chairman Janardan Sharma directly challenged Prachanda’s leadership, holding him responsible for the party’s loss of public mandate in 2007 (2064 BS). This bold accusation from a senior leader has exposed growing fissures within the former rebel party that now serves as a key coalition partner in Nepal’s government.
While most Standing Committee members reportedly expressed support for maintaining Prachanda’s leadership at this critical juncture, Sharma’s persistent criticism and warnings about accountability have created palpable tension. Political observers note this public airing of disagreements comes at a sensitive time for the party as it navigates Nepal’s complex political landscape.
The meeting’s outcomes are being closely watched, as they could determine not only the Maoist Centre’s internal unity but also its position in the current power equation. Many anticipate the session may conclude with attempts to paper over differences rather than resolve them fundamentally, though the lingering discontent suggests more challenges ahead for the former revolutionary party now operating within mainstream politics.
Party insiders suggest today’s concluding session may produce a carefully worded statement affirming unity while quietly acknowledging the need for internal reforms. However, with Sharma and his supporters becoming increasingly vocal, the Maoist Centre appears headed for a period of intensified internal debate about its future direction.
Additional Context: The Maoist Centre remains the third-largest party in Nepal’s House of Representatives and plays a pivotal role in maintaining the current coalition government’s majority. This leadership debate comes ahead of several important political deadlines, including potential cabinet reshuffles and local election preparations.
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