Nepal's Political Landscape: Divisions in Nepali Congress, Communist Unity, and Rise of New Forces
Summary
Nepal’s Nepali Congress is facing deep internal division, while leftist forces are moving toward cooperation and possible unity amid shifting geopolitics and pressure for political realignment. The rise of the Rastriya Swatantra Party has further challenged the old political parties and reshaped the country’s power balance.
Key Points
- The Nepali Congress is split into establishment, Deuba, and Dr. Shekhar Koirala camps, with disputes over active membership updates and party legitimacy still unresolved.
- Leftist forces, including UML and CPN, are pursuing cooperation and a possible future merger after a three-point understanding between KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal.
- Political analyst Bhim Bhurtel argues that geopolitical shifts and external pressure are driving Nepal’s current political restructuring.
- The rise of the Rastriya Swatantra Party and its coalition influence have increased pressure on Nepal’s older democratic and communist forces.
