The ruling CPN-UML in Nepal blocked former President Vidya Devi Bhandari’s attempt to return to active politics, saying it would be unfair to play a role in the party of a former head of state.
During the meeting of the Central Committee of Nepal Communist Party (Integrated Marxist-Leninist), the party also supported the amendment in the law passed by its secretariat and the Polit Bureau, which provides for the removal of 70 years of age and two term limit for leadership (Prime Minister’s post).
With this amendment, Prime Minister and CPN-UML President K.K. P. Sharma Oli (74), who is completing his second term as party president, can continue to serve the party while holding the post.
Bhandari’s move was seen as a challenge for Oli, who has been elected the president of the party twice. Also, he is planning to contest elections for the post of party president for the third time.
Party General Secretary Shankar Pokharel told the media on Wednesday that Bhandari’s general membership has become neutralized after the Central Committee decided in this direction.
Pokharel said that the Central Committee has come to the conclusion that it is not appropriate to return the former President to play a role in the party.
Bhandari’s term ended on 12 March 2023 in the presidency. He recently said that he is ready to return to active politics.
