Kathmandu — The Nepali Congress has strongly objected to the dissolution of the House of Representatives, describing it as unconstitutional and a direct threat to Nepal’s democratic achievements. The move was announced on Friday night after President Ram Chandra Paudel acted on the recommendation of newly appointed Prime Minister Sushila Karki.
Congress Meeting and Reactions
An emergency session of the party’s Central Working Committee concluded that the dissolution contradicts the constitution and goes against past Supreme Court rulings. After the meeting, Chief Secretary Krishna Prasad Paudel told reporters, “This decision undermines the constitution and puts at risk the democratic achievements we have fought hard to secure.”
As Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba is currently receiving treatment after being injured in recent protests, the meeting was chaired by Vice President Purna Bahadur Khadka. Provincial presidents, chief ministers, and parliamentary leaders from all seven provinces were also in attendance.
In its discussions, the party emphasized that dialogue should have been the path forward after the Gen-Z protests of September 8–9. Congress maintained that leadership of the interim government should have been entrusted to the candidate put forward by the movement, with Parliament legitimizing the process through constitutional amendment and setting the stage for fresh elections.
“Our proposal would have fulfilled the demands of the youth movement while protecting constitutional integrity. Unfortunately, instead of adopting a consensual approach, an unconstitutional route has been taken. This is deeply regrettable,” the party statement noted.
Call for Accountability and Unity
The meeting also called for an independent investigation into the violence and unexpected incidents during the protests, stressing that those responsible must be held accountable. It underscored the need to protect the constitution drafted by the Constituent Assembly and the democratic gains it enshrines.
Congress urged all sides to exercise restraint and prevent any attempt to reverse decades of struggle in the name of addressing a constitutional vacuum.
The party reaffirmed that it will work with other political forces and civil society to safeguard peace, democracy, and progress. It also appealed to members, supporters, and Nepalis both at home and abroad to remain calm and united in this critical period.
