Kathmandu — Internal tensions have resurfaced within the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) after party coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ claimed that nearly half of its central-level leaders did not support the party during the recent elections.
Prachanda said a preliminary internal report indicates that some central leaders may have voted for the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). He warned that those involved would be identified and brought under disciplinary action.
Large Structure, Weak Coordination
The CPN’s central committee, which includes thousands of members formed through the merger of multiple communist groups, continues to face coordination challenges. Party leaders acknowledge that member identification and internal communication remain weak.
In this context, verifying who actively participated in the election or supported the party has become difficult.
The party has yet to convene a formal central-level review meeting following the election results. Prachanda, however, has indicated that future decisions will be based on reports and feedback from lower-level committees.
Controversy Over Approach
Instead of issuing directives through formal party structures, Prachanda requested detailed reports during a meeting with leaders of mass organizations. He asked for information on which central, provincial, and organizational leaders supported the party and who did not.
This approach has triggered criticism within the party, with some leaders arguing that the focus should be on a comprehensive review of the election outcome rather than assigning blame.
Review Process Still Underway
Senior leader Beduram Bhusal said that election reports are being collected from all constituencies across the country. He stated that a central-level review meeting will be held after the reports are received.
Bhusal also said it would be premature to conclude who supported the party, noting that multiple factors could have influenced the election results and require careful assessment.
Outcome and Challenges Ahead
In the recent House of Representatives elections, the CPN secured limited success. While some senior leaders won their seats, several prominent figures were defeated.
The results have intensified calls within the party for internal review and organizational reform. Analysts say the situation presents an opportunity for the CPN to reassess its structure, leadership approach, and connection with grassroots supporters.
