Kathmandu: The Nepal Communist Party (UML) has taken a major step toward internal reform, with its Politburo unanimously endorsing a statute amendment proposal during the fourth plenary meeting held at the party headquarters in Chyasal, Lalitpur, on Monday.

Key Amendments Passed Unanimously
According to Rajendra Gautam, head of the UML Propaganda Department, the proposal – initially endorsed by the central secretariat – was presented at the meeting by Vice-Chairman Bishnu Prasad Poudel and received input from 68 Politburo members.

The amendments include the following major changes:

-Introduction of two types of membership: organized membership and general party membership.

-Abolition of the age limit of 70 years for party leadership positions.

-Elimination of the two-term limit for leadership roles.

-Recognition of district committees as executive committees, enhancing their authority in the party structure.

The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister and UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli.

Debate Over Bidya Devi Bhandari’s Political Comeback
In a surprising development, the meeting also saw a serious discussion on the possible return of former President Bidya Devi Bhandari to active party politics. Her party membership renewal was brought up during the session, prompting a range of views among participants.

While no final decision was made, Gautam said, “Most friends have noted the gravity of the issue, as she has held the highest constitutional office and acted as the guardian of the constitution.” He further added, “The party will make a formal decision on her political role after additional consultations.”

The matter is expected to be taken up in the upcoming Central Committee meeting on July 5, where a conclusion regarding Bhandari’s potential political involvement will be reached.

Next Steps: General Convention in August
The endorsed statute amendment proposal will now be tabled in the Central Committee meeting. Additionally, the party has announced the schedule for its Statutory General Convention, which will take place from August 20 to 22 at the Sunrise International Conference Center in Godavari, Lalitpur.

This move signals UML’s commitment to internal restructuring and possibly preparing for significant leadership reshuffles and ideological positioning ahead of national political developments.