The three district chairpersons of the CPN–UML in Kathmandu Valley have opted out of becoming delegates for the party’s upcoming General Convention. Kathmandu chair Deepak Niraula, Bhaktapur chair Bachan Deuja, and Lalitpur chair Purushottam Acharya did not participate as delegates in Saturday’s selection process.
Lalitpur chair Acharya said the decision was made collectively to provide new members an opportunity. He stated that since the General Convention is being held in the Valley, they will naturally be involved in operational roles, making it reasonable to step back from delegate duties.
He added that increasing competition at every organizational level also influenced their decision. Acharya noted that leaders often move from ward committees to municipal and district committees after internal losses and sometimes even reach the central level with complaints.
He said the three chairs agreed not to become delegates to discourage such tendencies. He also stated that none of them intend to pursue central positions and will complete their district-level terms. All three were re-elected and have previously served as delegates.
Bhaktapur Chair Highlights Need to Promote New Leadership
Bhaktapur UML chair Bachan Deuja said the decision was meant to ensure new members receive opportunities. Deuja, a delegate since the eighth General Convention, had already expressed his intention not to participate as a delegate this time. He said the Lalitpur and Kathmandu chairs shared the same view.
He added that the party needs strengthening and that giving space to new members is essential. If the same individuals always take the opportunity, he said, organizational issues could arise. He also stated that all delegates in Bhaktapur were selected unanimously.
General Convention Schedule and Delegate Numbers
The UML’s 11th General Convention will be held on Mangsir 27–29. The opening session will take place in Sallaghari, Bhaktapur, while the closed session will be organized at Bhrikutimandap in Kathmandu.
Fourteen delegates have been selected from Lalitpur, fourteen from Bhaktapur, and forty-eight from Kathmandu.
