Gokul to Badal: If UML & Congress unite, Why Proportional Representation?

KATHMANDU: A sharp ideological debate has surfaced within the CPN-UML over future electoral alliances and the use of the proportional representation system, with senior leaders openly at odds.

The dispute intensified after UML Vice-Chair Ram Bahadur Thapa ‘Badal’ proposed that the Nepali Congress and UML contest elections together.

Just a day later, Politburo member Gokul Baskota strongly pushed back, signaling deep disagreement at the top level of the party.

Taking to social media on Wednesday, Baskota—without naming Badal but making a clear reference—criticized so-called “powerful” leaders for repeatedly securing positions through the proportional quota.

He mocked the proposal presented by Badal to party chair KP Sharma Oli, which suggested that the Congress’s tree and UML’s sun symbols should unite, remarking sarcastically, “If the tree and the sun are to go together, why not just contest the election outright?”

Baskota argued that leaders who consider themselves powerful and popular but shy away from direct electoral contests—and instead seek safety through proportional lists—are undermining the credibility of the inclusive system itself.

He further warned that male leaders occupying reserved quotas contradicts the very principle of inclusion, stating bluntly, “Do not disgrace inclusiveness—especially not by men.”