Political landscape shifts again as Prachanda signals new alliance possibilities

KATHMANDU: Nepal’s political scene is once again entering a turbulent phase, with signs pointing toward a potential shift in the federal power equation.

Recent developments suggest that a new political realignment may be on the horizon, spurred by intensified efforts from CPN (Maoist Centre) Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ to weaken the current ruling coalition.

The government, led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and backed by a seven-point agreement between the CPN-UML and Nepali Congress on Asar 17, has faced growing discontent not just from the public but from within its own ranks.

This dissatisfaction has provided an opening for Prachanda, who appears to be recalibrating his political strategy after being excluded from the ruling alliance.

In a recent television interview, Prachanda made it clear that he no longer seeks a return to power himself but instead aims to dismantle the current coalition and pave the way for a new political front.

He openly encouraged the Nepali Congress to take leadership of the government, offering unconditional support from his party.

“The country is in crisis. As the largest party and as a signatory to the peace agreement, the Nepali Congress must take the lead in resolving this situation,” Prachanda said. “Whether they ask us to support from outside or join the government, we will go along with their decision.”

Dissent is also growing within the Nepali Congress itself. Leaders like General Secretary Gagan Thapa and central committee member Dr. Shekhar Koirala have strongly criticized the government’s performance, claiming it has failed to meet public expectations — a failure that could ultimately damage the party’s political future.

This internal unrest has placed pressure on Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba, who has so far supported the continuation of the current coalition. But with the dissatisfaction reaching critical levels, even Deuba may soon be forced to reconsider his position.

Meanwhile, the Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) led by Upendra Yadav, which currently supports the government without being a formal part of it, has declared the Oli administration a failure.

This assessment further bolsters Prachanda’s push for a new political configuration, where JSP could become a key player.

Prachanda’s recent remarks can be interpreted on two levels. First, by removing himself from the race for prime ministership — at least until 2084 (BS) — he positions himself as a neutral facilitator.

Second, by urging Congress to lead, he underscores its historical and constitutional responsibility, subtly laying the groundwork for a new alliance where Congress leads and the Maoists offer strategic backing.

He also stressed the need for constitutional amendments and completion of unfinished tasks related to the peace process, suggesting that these goals require leadership from the Congress — particularly from Sher Bahadur Deuba.

Despite the government appearing stable with a parliamentary majority, questions about its longevity are now gaining momentum.

As discontent grows and opposition strategies evolve, Prachanda’s recent moves could very well catalyze yet another major political reshuffle.

Ultimately, however, the course of Nepal’s political future now rests heavily on the decisions made by the Nepali Congress.