Kathmandu – Senior CPN-UML leader and former minister Karn Bahadur Thapa has accused party General Secretary Shankar Pokharel of turning the party’s central office into a hub of factionalism and instability.
Thapa raised serious concerns about Pokharel’s conduct shortly after the party leadership issued directives instructing leaders and cadres not to engage in leadership debates or factional alignments ahead of the upcoming General Convention.
Following the return of former President Bidya Devi Bhandari to active politics within the UML after a long hiatus, General Secretary Pokharel has publicly expressed dissatisfaction—intensifying internal debates within the party.
Taking to social media, Thapa accused those offering insincere praise of Pokharel of acting against party policy and interests. He stated that such behavior has fostered a culture of intimidation among party cadres nationwide.
“In the aftermath of the party’s 10th National Convention, efforts have been made to position the General Secretary above the Chairperson, turning the party office into a breeding ground for factionalism,” Thapa wrote. “Continuing to suppress internal voices through flattery and coercion in the name of defending the leadership is detrimental to the party’s integrity.”
Calling for an immediate end to such divisive thinking, Thapa urged party members to return to the right path. Reaffirming his commitment to truth even in the most challenging times, he appealed to the wider UML rank and file to make informed decisions based on facts and deeper understanding.
This development once again highlights growing internal discontent within the CPN-UML, underscoring the urgent need for unity, open dialogue, and consensus to secure the party’s collective future.
