Kathmandu, – Senior Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala sat down with Maoist Centre Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal, better known as ‘Prachanda,’ on Thursday at his residence in Khumaltar. The two held nearly a two-hour discussion on the current government led by KP Sharma Oli. Koirala made it clear he’s dissatisfied with the coalition and urged Prachanda to take the lead in dismantling it.
Leadership and What’s Next for the Government
During their conversation, the leaders discussed the current power-sharing structure, growing public dissatisfaction, and what could come next politically. Koirala was direct: “You should be the one leading the charge to topple this Oli-led government. That’s the only way things will really change.”
Prachanda acknowledged that people expect leadership from Koirala but pointed out a major obstacle — Koirala is not the leader of the Congress parliamentary party. “Without that, you can’t be the prime minister,” he stated.
Koirala replied that as long as the Congress–CPN-UML alliance remains intact, he has no path to contest party leadership. He added that while he was one of the architects of the coalition, the government has failed to inspire public confidence over the past year.
Prachanda also voiced his frustrations, saying that internal conflicts within the ruling coalition have blocked efforts to ensure good governance.
Observers believe this high-level meeting could indicate a potential shake-up in Nepal’s political landscape. Koirala’s active stance, direct dialogue with Prachanda, and critique of Prime Minister Oli may reignite leadership debates within the Nepali Congress.
