Kathmandu — Several local representatives from Lalitpur affiliated with the Nepali Congress have called on party president Gagan Thapa not to resign, even as discussions about accountability continue after the party’s defeat in the House of Representatives election held on Falgun 21.
The appeal came from mayors, deputy mayors, and rural municipality leaders who were elected in the 2022 local elections on the Nepali Congress ticket. They said Thapa should remain in his leadership role despite the political debate surrounding the party’s electoral performance.
Lalitpur Leaders Issue Joint Statement
In a joint statement released on Thursday, Lalitpur’s local representatives said the party needs stable leadership at a time when the country’s political situation remains complex.
According to the statement, Thapa’s leadership and political guidance are crucial for strengthening the organization and maintaining unity within the Nepali Congress.
Emphasis on Congress History and Democratic Responsibility
The representatives also highlighted the long-standing political legacy of the Nepali Congress and stressed that the party must continue to play a strong role in protecting democracy and national interests.
They said that in the current political climate, experienced leadership is necessary and described Thapa as a capable figure who can help guide the party through the challenges it faces.
Support Expressed as Resignation Debate Continues
Among those expressing support were Lalitpur District Coordination Committee Chief Rishidev Phuyal, Lalitpur Metropolitan City Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan, and other elected officials from the district.
Thapa lost the parliamentary race in Sarlahi-4 to Rastriya Swatantra Party candidate Amaresh Kumar Singh in the recent election. The Nepali Congress secured 18 seats under the first-past-the-post system in the election, which took place 50 days after the party held a special general convention.
Following the results, leaders close to former party president Sher Bahadur Deuba have argued that Thapa should take responsibility for the defeat and step down from his post.
Party sources say Thapa recently discussed the issue with Vice-President Bishwaprakash Sharma, indicating he was ready to resign after accepting responsibility for the election outcome. However, Sharma reportedly advised him not to leave the position at this stage.
