Kathmandu: The Nepali Congress Central Working Committee is meeting today at 2 pm at the party headquarters in BP Nagar, Sanepa. The sitting is widely expected to be decisive, as it is set to address the shifting political landscape and determine the timing and modality of the party’s general convention.

Although the leadership initially intended to conclude the meeting on the 28th, discussions were extended after the general secretaries and one vice president presented their views on the 29th. Due to several delays, the meeting has now stretched for an additional week. In this context, today’s gathering is seen as critical.

Acting President Purna Bahadur Khadka had earlier posted on social media urging leaders to conclude the meeting through discussion and consensus. However, meetings scheduled for Saturday and Monday were postponed, while Khadka remained occupied with internal consultations within the establishment faction. No formal meeting has been held since Karthik 27.

Party President Sher Bahadur Deuba returned to Nepal last week after 18 days of medical treatment in Singapore, but the Congress continues to indicate reasons for prolonging internal deliberations. A debate has intensified on whether to hold a special general convention or proceed with a regular one. On Asoj 28, President Deuba had handed over executive authority to Khadka and urged him to expedite the general convention.

With the House of Representatives dissolved and elections scheduled for Falgun 21, many within the party argue that this is the opportune moment for the Congress to elect new leadership. Following the Gen-G movement, calls have grown stronger for internal reforms and timely leadership renewal.

On Asoj 29, the establishment faction submitted signatures from 54 percent of the general convention delegates, which, according to the party statute, mandates holding a special general convention within three months. Despite this, critics allege that the establishment is reluctant, preferring to approach the elections under the current leadership.

Even if the party opts for a regular general convention, it remains possible to conduct it by the end of Mangsir, since the last convention was held in Mangsir 2078. Delegates have also emphasized that no decision should be delayed beyond Poush 29.

Twenty-five central committee members aligned with the establishment have already submitted a memorandum demanding the general convention before the elections. The acting president has yet to clarify reasons behind the delays in decision-making. Meanwhile, the general secretaries have already presented their proposals regarding the convention.

As the Nepali Congress has formally announced its participation in the Falgun 21 elections, internal pressure is mounting to first resolve leadership questions and finalize a fresh party agenda before facing the electorate.