Political Showdown: Nepal's Major Parties Set for Landmark Conventions

Nepal's traditional parties, CPN-UML and Nepali Congress, are preparing for their upcoming general conventions. CPN-UML's convention will see a leadership battle between K P Sharma Oli and Ishwor Pokharel, while Nepali Congress, under interim leadership after Sher Bahadur Deuba's injury, is poised for an internal shakeup.

Nepal's political landscape is bracing for significant shifts as the CPN-UML and Nepali Congress gear up for their respective general conventions. The events are expected to shape the leadership and future strategies of these traditional parties.

The CPN-UML's convention, scheduled from December 13-15 in Kathmandu, will witness a fierce leadership contest between deposed Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and senior vice-chairman Ishwor Pokharel. With backing from former President Bidya Devi Bhandari, Pokharel poses a serious challenge to Oli's bid for a third term as party chairman.

Meanwhile, the Nepali Congress has planned its convention from January 10-12 next year. Following President Sher Bahadur Deuba's relinquishment of his post due to health reasons, the party will decide its new leadership. The convention follows a protracted debate within the party on its timing concerning the Parliamentary elections. Key contenders for leadership include Gagan Thapa, Bimalendra Nidhi, Prakash Man Singh, and Shekhar Koirala.

(With inputs from agencies.)