Nepal's Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari Makes a Comeback in Politics

Strategic Insights -

Following her announcement to re-enter party politics, Nepal's former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has been increasingly involved in various political meetings. The meetings have been attended by leaders from major parties including CPN-UML, CPN-Maoist Center, and others, with some notable figures such as Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah and former Koshi Province Chief Minister Sherdhan Rai in attendance. Bhandari's renewed activity has sparked anticipation of an emerging factional struggle within UML.

Key Takeaways:

  • Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has formally declared her return to active politics and has been facilitating and participating in numerous political meetings.
  • Leaders from major parties, including CPN-UML, CPN-Maoist Center, and others, have increased their engagements with Bhandari, indicating a significant shift in her political strategy.
  • Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah met with Bhandari, accompanied by a CPN-UML leader, reportedly to congratulate her on relinquishing government perks.
  • Senior leaders from the Maoist Center held discussions with the former President, further emphasizing her growing influence in Nepalese politics.
  • Bhandari's re-entry into the CPN-UML has sparked anticipation of an emerging factional struggle within the party.
  • Former Koshi Province Chief Minister Sherdhan Rai and other key figures have shown interest in Bhandari's renewed political activity, suggesting a potential power shift in the region.
  • Raj Kumar Rai, Bhandari's personal secretary, was unaware of the meeting with Mayor Shah, highlighting potential communication gaps within her team.

Statistics:

  • The number of political meetings facilitated by Bhandari has increased significantly since her announcement to re-enter party politics.
  • As of June 28, Bhandari had confirmed the renewal of her CPN-UML membership, marking a milestone in her comeback story.
  • The visit to Bhandari's residence by Mayor Shah and former Koshi Province Chief Minister Sherdhan Rai took place during private family interactions, indicating a blending of personal and professional roles.

Sources:

  • Republica, "Ex-President Bhandari's return to active politics intensifies party meetings"
  • HT Digital Content Services, "Nepal's former President Bidya Devi Bhandari makes a comeback in politics"