Is Oli’s victory over Ishwar Pokhrel also a final defeat for Bidya Bhandari?
Summary
CPN-UML chief KP Sharma Oli defeated Ishwar Pokhrel to secure a third term as party chairman, marking a significant setback for former President Bidya Devi Bhandari's political ambitions within the party.
Key Points
- KP Sharma Oli was elected party chairman of CPN-UML for the third term by defeating Ishwar Pokhrel.
- Pokhrel's strength included the backing of former President Bidya Devi Bhandari, whose political comeback was largely blocked.
- Bidya Bhandari was denied party membership for seeking to contest against Oli, considered a wrong precedent by party members.
- Internal party dynamics revealed a proxy contest between Oli and Bhandari factions, with Oli's faction maneuvering to limit her influence.
- Political analysts warn Oli's re-election despite controversies signals challenges for Nepali democracy.
