Kathmandu: KP Sharma Oli, Chairman of CPN-UML, has returned to Nepal after a trip to Cambodia where he monitored the election system and process. His participation in the Universal Peace Federation's program and subsequent speech have sparked controversy in Nepal.

Critics have raised concerns over Oli's association with religious groups and his repeated meetings with Cambodia's Prime Minister, Hun Sen, who has been in power for an extended period. The Cambodian elections he monitored are not recognized by the international community, adding to the controversy.

Oli, a former Prime Minister known for his secular stance in taking oaths but engaging in politics with religious groups, faced criticism for addressing the 'Holy Wine' program during his previous term as well. The Nepali public is questioning the connection between the communist leader and international religious organizations, particularly missionaries.

During his recent trip, Oli met with Hun Sen for the fourth time in five years, raising eyebrows due to their close relationship. The meetings have been a topic of interest, with concerns over the nature of their ties.

The controversy deepened as Oli addressed an international conference for peace and democracy during his stay in Cambodia, accompanied by his wife Radha Shakya.

The Universal Peace Federation, the organization behind the event, has been at the center of scrutiny in Nepal. Oli's participation in their programs and his previous involvement with the federation have drawn criticism from various quarters.

Eknath Dhakal, a UML MP and former president of Parivar Dal, has been linked to Oli's engagements with the Universal Peace Federation. Dhakal's association with the organization has led to further questioning of Oli's ties with religious groups abroad.

The Unification Church, which founded the Universal Peace Federation, has a controversial history, with its founder, Sun Myung Moon, claiming to be the new "Messiah" and promoting traditional family values.

Oli's involvement with the religious conference held in Kathmandu, known as the Asia Pacific Summit, during his previous term as Prime Minister also received criticism. Allegations of misuse of state funds and improper conduct during the event were raised against Oli and his government.

With his recent trip to Cambodia and participation in the Universal Peace Federation's program, questions are resurfacing about Oli's affiliations with religious communities and the implications of his actions as a political leader.