Congress Leadership Pushes for Internal Reforms and Decentralization

The Nepali Congress is initiating a series of internal reforms aimed at modernizing party operations, improving its public image, and decentralizing candidate selection processes. Party President Gagan Kumar Thapa and General Secretary Pradeep Poudel have both emphasized the need for a shift in political culture as the party prepares for future electoral cycles.

Decentralizing Candidate Selection

President Thapa announced that the party is moving away from the centralized practice of selecting candidates for local elections. According to Nagarik News, Thapa stated that the responsibility for choosing candidates for positions like metropolitan mayors will be shifted to local party members. Thapa emphasized that central committee members must move beyond Kathmandu-centric politics and engage directly with local cadres to strengthen the party at the grassroots level.

Changing Political Culture

Addressing the party’s public image, Thapa criticized the traditional culture of elaborate welcomes for leaders, such as the use of garlands and large entourages at airports. As reported by Nagarik News, he argued that such displays create distance between leaders and the public. Thapa has issued directives to discourage these practices, urging leaders to make themselves accessible to citizens for dialogue and feedback. He called his four-year term a new chapter and pledged to lead with honesty.

Strengthening Party Unity

General Secretary Pradeep Poudel, speaking at an event organized by the Nepali Congress Myagde Village Committee, noted that the party is actively working to improve its public perception. As reported by Artha Sarokar, Poudel stressed that while the party must address internal matters, it should not lose sight of its national responsibilities. He explicitly ruled out electoral alliances for upcoming local and provincial polls, stating that the party is not driven by a desire for power but by a commitment to democratic values.

Furthermore, Thapa announced a 'Special Dialogue Campaign' to reconnect with voters and families who have drifted away from the party due to internal competition. According to Annapurna Post, Thapa stated that the party’s institutional factions have effectively ended, and the focus must now shift to mending relationships and addressing past shortcomings. Gandaki Province Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey echoed this sentiment, highlighting the necessity of reaching out to former supporters to rebuild the party's base. Thapa also praised the party’s multi-generational composition, noting that the active participation of members ranging from 20 to 80 years old serves as a significant asset for the organization.