Supreme Court reopens Nepali Congress legitimacy dispute: What comes next
Summary
The Supreme Court has reopened the Nepali Congress legitimacy dispute after granting review of its April 17 verdict recognising Gagan Thapa’s leadership. The fresh hearing adds uncertainty as the Thapa camp and the Deuba-aligned faction prepare separate gatherings in Kathmandu.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court accepted review petitions filed by Sher Bahadur Deuba and Purna Bahadur Khadka against its April 17 verdict on the Nepali Congress leadership dispute.
- The earlier ruling had recognised the Thapa-led Central Working Committee and upheld the Election Commission’s decision.
- The Deuba faction has announced a National Gathering in Kathmandu from August 14 to 16, while the Thapa camp is preparing the party’s 15th general convention for October 2 to 4, 2026.
- The dispute reflects a deeper struggle over party statute interpretation, leadership control, and the future direction of the Nepali Congress.
