KATHMANDU: CPN-UML Vice Chairperson Yubaraj Gyawali has said no legal or constitutional obstacle prevents former President Bidya Devi Bhandari from returning to active politics or even contesting for party leadership.
In an interview with Himal Press, Gyawali said that while public debate over the propriety of a former president returning to partisan politics is valid, no clause in the law, constitution, or party statute bars Bhandari from doing so.
“There is no rule that says a former president cannot return to politics. The law only prevents sitting presidents from remaining party members. But after their tenure, there’s no restriction on rejoining politics,” said Gyawali.
His remarks come amid speculation that Bhandari might contest for the UML chairpersonship in the party’s upcoming general convention, possibly challenging incumbent leader KP Sharma Oli.
Asked if her return would be morally appropriate, Gyawali dismissed the moral argument as subjective.
“Morality is a vague concept; it has no fixed definition. If the country and party are in crisis and the individual is capable, then returning to politics should not be questioned,” he said.
Gyawali, however, clarified that he has not personally heard Bhandari express an intention to contest for party leadership.
“I haven’t heard Bhandari say she wants to be chairperson. There are speculations, but assumptions are not facts,” he added.
He also responded to claims that Bhandari’s potential return is being promoted by a faction within the party as a counterweight to Oli.
“Linking Bhandari to an anti-Oli campaign is premature. What Comrade Oli or Bhandari decides is up to them. My remarks are purely based on legal and structural principles,” Gyawali said.
