Oli questions removal process amid UML leadership row
KATHMANDU: CPN (UML) Chair KP Sharma Oli has raised questions over the procedure and legal mechanism that would be followed if there is an attempt to remove him from party leadership, as internal debate over party restructuring grows sharper in the ongoing Secretariat meeting.
According to a leader present at the meeting, Oli made the remarks after hearing opinions from a majority of Secretariat members, many of whom have reportedly voiced support for party restructuring, putting the chairman under increasing internal pressure.
The Secretariat meeting, which began on May 18, continued on Sunday as well. Oli is yet to complete his formal response in the ongoing agenda, while other members continue to present their views. The chair has also been responding intermittently during the discussions.
During the meeting, Oli reportedly questioned the process of his possible removal, saying, “If I am to be removed, through what method and procedure will it be done? The national general convention was held only six months ago. Holding another general convention is unlikely; a special convention might be required. What happens to the lower-level conventions held just three months ago?”
He also signaled readiness to face the party’s Central Committee if required. “If there is a demand that I step down, let’s go to the Central Committee meeting. I will also speak one-on-one with every member,” he said.
On Saturday, Oli had urged Secretariat members not to “over-persuade” him, firmly stating that he would not resign. “Why are you trying to convince me? Don’t try to persuade me. I will not step down,” he was quoted as saying by a party office-bearer.
Oli also claimed he could restore the party to its former strength, insisting that his leadership remains necessary. “I will bring the party back to its old position. I must continue to lead it,” he said.
The meeting has reportedly become prolonged, and tensions surfaced on Saturday when senior leader Prithvi Subba Gurung countered Oli’s remarks, pushing discussions further into disagreement over the party’s future direction.
