Nepal’s main opposition party CPN-UML has expelled a ward chair in Dang over alleged anti-party activities, a move that highlights growing internal tensions after a recent electoral setback. The decision against Madhusudan Ghimire is seen as a warning to leaders accused of supporting rival forces.
The UML Dang district committee removed Ghorahi-4 ward chair Madhusudan Ghimire, also known as Munal, from even ordinary party membership, according to party officials.
Action Linked to Rival Support Allegations
Party spokesperson for Dang, Sangita Basyal, said the decision was taken during a district committee meeting held on april 6. Ghimire was accused of working against UML interests and backing rival candidates.
Officials claim he was involved in activities opposing party general secretary Shankar Pokharel, who contested from Dang-2 in the recent parliamentary elections.
Election Defeat Adds Political Pressure
Pokharel suffered a heavy defeat to Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) leader Bipin Acharya in the march 5 election, a loss that has intensified scrutiny within UML ranks in Dang. The expulsion comes amid broader concerns within the party about internal discipline and shifting loyalties following the defeat.
Public Shift Toward RSP
Ghimire, who was elected ward chair in the 2022 local elections under UML, had recently shown open support for the RSP. He had also publicly announced his departure from UML through social media, further fueling tensions within the party.
Recommendation to Remove From Office
According to UML officials, a recommendation has been made to Ghorahi Mayor Narulal Chaudhary to remove Ghimire from his elected post. The move indicates the party’s intent to take both political and administrative action against leaders accused of defiance.
Pattern of Disciplinary Action Emerges
This is not an isolated case. UML had earlier taken similar action against Ghorahi-8 ward chair Jitendra Shah for violating party discipline. The repeated disciplinary measures suggest a tightening of control within UML as it seeks to rebuild authority and cohesion in key districts like Dang.
