Kathmandu: The Nepali Congress (NC) has officially announced party President Gagan Thapa as its candidate for prime minister in the forthcoming elections.
The decision was made during a meeting of the party’s Central Committee held on Friday. Party Vice President Bishwaprakash Sharma said Thapa was endorsed after being evaluated against five key criteria designed to ensure strong and capable leadership.
According to Sharma, the assessment focused on Thapa’s political background, adherence to democratic political culture, leadership ability to run the state, experience in political struggle and governance, and understanding of Nepal’s diverse geography.
Sharma explained that recent internal transformations within the party, particularly following the ‘Gen-Z movement’ of September 8 and 9, also influenced the decision. He noted that the Congress adopted a new leadership approach and policy direction through a special convention held after the movement.
“Being prime minister is not just about holding a party position,” Sharma said. “Leadership is proven either through struggle on the streets or by performing effectively in power.”
Highlighting Thapa’s political career, Sharma recalled his prominent role in the 2062/63 BS People’s Movement, including his public advocacy for republicanism in front of Narayanhiti Palace. “We are confident in presenting Gagan Thapa as a prime ministerial candidate whose leadership has been tested through struggle,” he added.
Sharma also emphasized Thapa’s strong grasp of Nepal’s geographical and social diversity, stating that this quality makes him well suited to govern inclusively. Thapa’s ability to address the concerns of regions such as Karnali and Madhesh was cited as a major factor behind his endorsement.
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