Kathmandu: Former President and ex-Vice President of CPN-UML, Bidya Devi Bhandari, held a surprising political discussion with Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah (Balen) last Thursday, in what is being seen as a significant political maneuver.

Bhandari, who recently announced her return to active politics, has been engaging in a flurry of meetings. Her discussion with Mayor Balen, which lasted about an hour, was reportedly facilitated by UML lawmakers, one of whom accompanied the mayor. According to sources, several UML leaders were already present at Bhandari’s residence in Bhangal prior to Balen’s arrival.

Discussions Focused on Capital's Governance Issues
The meeting reportedly focused on the governance challenges in Kathmandu, especially the mounting complaints that Mayor Balen is unable to function effectively due to obstruction from the UML. Sources indicate that Bhandari may be exploring ways to foster consensus and help ease tensions within the capital’s administration.

Implications of UML’s Internal Dynamics
The meeting has triggered intense political speculation, especially since it comes at a time when coordination between Prime Minister and UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli and his own party cadres has weakened. Bhandari’s political comeback—highlighted by her renewal of UML membership on Ashad 14 and return of government-provided services—has stirred discontent within party ranks and appears to signal a looming internal power struggle.

While Oli has publicly downplayed her return, insiders say factional rifts are deepening. Some disgruntled or sidelined leaders within the UML are believed to be rallying behind Bhandari as a potential alternative to Oli’s dominance—especially with the upcoming UML general convention on the horizon. Her name is already being floated as a potential candidate for party president.

History and Shifting Power Centers
Bhandari has long been seen as politically aligned with KP Oli. Her rise to key roles—including UML Vice-Chair, ministerial posts, and eventually President (twice)—has historically been attributed to her close coordination with Oli. This makes her recent actions even more intriguing, as it remains unclear whether her return is with Oli’s blessing or in opposition to his leadership.

The tension was further accentuated by Oli’s recent remarks about Madan Bhandari, delivered just before his departure to Spain, which many interpreted as veiled warnings aimed at internal dissenters.

As the UML appears headed toward a new phase of internal conflict, all eyes are now on Bidya Devi Bhandari—whose re-entry into party politics may significantly reshape the balance of power ahead of the convention.