Kathmandu: The Nepali Congress Central Working Committee meeting begins today at the party headquarters in BP Nagar, Sanepa. The session, starting at 1 p.m., was previously scheduled for last Sunday but was postponed amid rising internal demands for leadership change and a new general convention.

Internal Pressure for General or Special Convention

Growing discontent within the party has led to calls for either a regular general convention or a special convention to address the demands of the Gen-G movement and prepare for the upcoming House of Representatives elections on Falgun 21.
Signatures from most districts have already been collected in support of a convention. The establishment faction, however, appears hesitant, seeking to delay the process.

Leadership Change Debate

Since the 14th General Convention was held in Mangsir 2078, the next regular convention could technically be held this Mangsir.
However, with increasing pressure from within and outside the establishment, many leaders insist that a leadership change is essential even if a full convention cannot be organized immediately.
The ongoing meeting will finalize the party’s political strategy in light of these shifts.

Return of the Deuba Couple

Party president Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife Arju Rana Deuba, who had been out of the public eye since the violent Gen-G protest on Bhadra 24, are expected to attend today’s meeting.
During that unrest, their Budhanilkantha residence was set on fire, and the couple was rescued by the army and hospitalized.
The incident reportedly caused significant property loss, including large sums of money, now under government investigation.

Deuba’s Image and Controversy

Public opinion on Deuba remains divided. Some view him sympathetically, recalling his decision to face the crowd rather than seek army protection, while others criticize him for the unexplained cash found at his residence that was looted and burned during the riot.
The Deuba couple is expected to clarify these issues during the ongoing meeting.

Deuba’s Possible Exit and Leadership Transition

Sources suggest that Deuba is considering stepping down gracefully from party leadership after recent mistreatment and controversies.
While some of his supporters argue that demanding a convention while Deuba was recovering was inappropriate, many believe a leadership change is now inevitable to save the party’s image and unity.
Deuba has hinted that he will step aside once a “comfortable environment” is ensured, potentially paving the way for a special or regular general convention soon.