NC dissident faction sets future strategy at national gathering

KATHMANDU: The dissident faction of the Nepali Congress (NC) concluded its three-day national gathering in Kathmandu on Sunday, passing a five-point resolution that includes issues such as the party’s 15th general convention, national sovereignty, democracy, religious culture and constitutional amendments.

The gathering, which began on Friday, decided that the 15th general convention would be organized and conducted as per the decisions of the Central Working Committee elected by the 14th General Convention. Participants expressed confidence that a unified party under Deuba’s leadership is crucial for successfully executing the upcoming general convention.

The convention also decided to name Shashank Koirala, coordinator of the national gathering, as coordinator to oversee party activities until the 15th general convention under Deuba’s instruction.

The faction has decided to refuse the Central Working Committee under Gagan Kumar Thapa elected by the Special General Convention.

The Supreme Court has already decided to review its earlier verdict that granted legitimacy to the Thapa-led committee.

The gathering also pledged to engage actively with democratic and national forces through dialogue and cooperation to bolster sovereignty and democracy at this time of national crisis.

The convention also passed a resolution advocating for Nepal’s traditional religious and cultural heritage as a key pillar of national identity.

Recognizing the duty to protect Nepal’s traditional faiths—including Hinduism, Buddhism, Kirat, and nature worship—the gathering committed to promoting Sanatan Dharma as a central national identity.

It also decided to hold dialogue with all relevant stakeholders, in accordance with constitutional provisions, to enact necessary amendments to the current constitution in line with public expectations.

Meanwhile, the gathering has formed a committee under NP Saud to finalize the written text of the resolutions passed by the gathering. Umakanta Chaudhary, Sita Rana, Min Bahadur Bishwakarma and Deepak Prasad Kuikel are also in the committee.