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Ex-presidents

Intense Discussions Erupt in CPN-UML Politburo Meeting Over Bidya Devi Bhandari's Return to Active Politics

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

A two-day meeting of the CPN-UML politburo saw intense debates over whether former President Bidya Devi Bhandari should be allowed to participate in active party politics, with some leaders arguing that her actions do not exceed the boundaries set by party chair KP Sharma Oli in the past. The meeting revisited previous issues raised by Oli, including the two-term leadership policy, the 70-year age limit, and internal party democratization. Leaders emphasized that current developments, particularly Bhandari's political initiative, are in line with what Oli had once championed, citing his 2010 paper that advocated for democratic norms within the party.

Key Takeaways:

  • The CPN-UML politburo meeting saw debates over whether former President Bidya Devi Bhandari should be restricted from active party politics, with some leaders arguing that her actions do not exceed the boundaries set by party chair KP Sharma Oli in the past.
  • Oli's 2010 paper presented at a national orientation program advocated for democratic norms within the party, which is being used as a basis for Bhandari's political engagement.
  • The age limit became a key topic of debate, with Oli himself now 73, and the UML statute stating that leaders above 70 are not eligible for leadership roles.
  • Senior Vice Chair Ishwar Pokharel defended the age limit and proposed a statute amendment to bar any official from holding a third term in leadership.
  • Leaders like Karna Thapa endorsed the slogan "Madan's Ideology: Bidya's Leadership," confirming Bhandari's ambition for central leadership.
  • Bhandari formally announced her return to active politics on July 28, after stepping down from the presidency, stating "I have renewed my party membership.. I have rejoined UML as a regular member."
  • Oli and General Secretary Shankar Pokharel gave ambiguous responses about her membership renewal, fueling tensions in the politburo.
  • Politburo members called for the resolution of disputes between Oli and Bhandari, with some suggesting that no one should be barred from participating in politics and that dialogue is needed.

Statistics:

  • The CPN-UML politburo meeting was held on July 20 and 21.
  • Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari re-joined the UML as a regular member on July 28.
  • Party chair KP Sharma Oli is now 73 years old.
  • The UML statute states that leaders above 70 are not eligible for leadership roles.

Sources:

  • "No one should dream of going against democracy: PM Deuba" (Republica)
  • "Bidya Devi Bhandari announces her return to active politics" (Republica)
  • "CPN-UML politburo meeting: Bhandari's return sparks debate" (Republica)
  • "Oli's 2010 paper on democratization in the party" (Madan Bhandari Foundation)

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