Kathmandu: The 11th General Convention of the CPN–UML entered a closed session at Bhrikutimandap in Kathmandu on Sunday to begin the process of selecting the party’s new leadership. The closed session, scheduled to start at 12 noon, follows the convention’s inauguration held at Sallaghari in Bhaktapur on Saturday. Discussions and leadership selection will continue in Kathmandu through Monday.
This convention has drawn attention as party Chair KP Sharma Oli faces a challenge from Senior Vice-Chair Ishwor Pokharel. Despite the competition, neither faction had officially announced its panel as the closed session commenced.
Pokharel, who has already declared his candidacy for the party chair, is believed to have the support of a group close to former President and former party Vice-Chair Bidya Devi Bhandari, fueling speculation about a possible “Ishwor–Bidya” alliance.
A total of 2,262 general convention representatives are taking part in the leadership selection process. According to the party’s organizational structure, the UML will elect 15 office bearers, including one chair, three vice-chairs, one general secretary, three deputy general secretaries and seven secretaries. The Central Committee will consist of 251 members in total.
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