Unified Socialist formally decides to pursue merger with Maoist Center

KATHMANDU: The CPN (Unified Socialist) has officially decided to merge with the CPN (Maoist Center).

The decision was made during the party’s Central Committee meeting held on Friday.

Unified Socialist Vice-chairperson Jagannath Khatiwada told Himal Press that the meeting unanimously agreed to pursue unification with the Maoist Center. “A decision has been made to unite with the Maoist Center as well as with other like-minded parties and groups,” Khatiwada said, adding that the party’s Central Secretariat has been tasked with completing the remaining procedures.

He indicated that a formal announcement of the merger could come within three to four days.

Although party Chairperson Madhav Kumar Nepal and leaders close to him have supported the merger plan, several senior leaders of the Unified Socialist have opposed the move. Senior leader Jhalanath Khanal as well as leaders like General Secretary Ghanashyam Bhusal, Ghanendra Basnet and Ram Kumari Jhakri have opposed the decision.

Khatiwada said while some objections were raised during discussions, the final decision was unanimous. “There was disagreement during deliberations, but the decision itself was unanimous,” he said. “The process for unification will now move forward.”

Meanwhile, CPN-UML Chairperson KP Sharma Oli on Friday called on former members of the party to return to the old house. “Wherever you are, return to your old home,” Oli said.

Unified Socialist was formed by leaders who split from the UML in 2021.