What Is the Nepali Congress Deuba Faction’s Next Move Following Supreme Court Ruling?

Following the Supreme Court’s recognition of Gagan Thapa’s leadership in the Nepali Congress, much attention has shifted to the upcoming strategy of the Deuba faction. Leaders aligned with Deuba expressed that the court’s decision was “unexpected” and indicated plans to formulate their future approach. One leader remarked that they had previously rejected the special general convention held months ago and continue to do so. Meanwhile, Congress spokespersons have assured that there will be no obstacles in moving forward with unity among all factions.

The Supreme Court verdict appears to have settled months-long debates within the Congress regarding official leadership as of Friday. Vimlendra Nidhi, a leader close to then-President Deuba, declined to comment on the court’s ruling at present. “Secondly, we’ve never accepted the special general convention and still do not,” Nidhi told the BBC. He added that discussions with colleagues will be held to decide the next steps. “We will deliberate and establish the way forward,” he noted.

Leaders of the Deuba faction had been hopeful that the Supreme Court would rule in their favor. However, the verdict delivered on Friday seems to have disappointed them. “The order did not meet our expectations,” said NP Saud, a leader from the Deuba camp. Regarding future plans, he explained, “We will confer with fellow party members after the Supreme Court’s decision and make determinations.” He further added, “A concrete decision will be reached within a week to ten days.”

Addressing the conclusion of the dispute after the Supreme Court’s ruling, Congress spokesperson Devaraj Chalise stated, “The legal and statutory disagreements have ended following the court decision.” He emphasized, “Now, the path forward is to include everyone, establish the notion that Congress belongs to all.” The court’s order officially recognized the committee led by Gagan Thapa. The Supreme Court dismissed the petition filed by the Deuba faction challenging the Election Commission’s recognition of Thapa, effectively upholding Thapa’s leadership.