Rawal terms decision to remove him arbitrary, authoritarian

KATHMANDU: Bhim Rawal has criticized the CPN-UML’s decision to expel him from the party, calling it arbitrary and authoritarian.

The former UML vice-chairperson accused party Chairperson KP Sharma Oli of making a dictatorial decision driven by a lust for power.

In a brief statement following his expulsion, Rawal said: “The decision by KP Oli to remove me from party membership is an arbitrary, authoritarian act fueled by an obsession with power.”

Rawal added that he was not surprised by attacks from individuals with records of corruption, unethical behavior and criminal charges. “It doesn’t surprise me that those who protect corrupt, unethical and criminal individuals, and those who undermine national unity, culture and the integrity of UM have targeted a patriotic and honest individual like me.”

Expressing confidence in party loyalists and the general public, Rawal said that they would oppose Oli’s unjust decision.

The UML Secretariat meeting held on Wednesday expelled Rawal from the general membership on Wednesday. It also suspended Standing Committee member Brinda Pandey and Central Committee member Usha Kiran Timilsina for six months.