Jul 23, Kathmandu - The 44th remembrance day of Nepali Congress founder and first democratically elected Prime Minister BP Koirala has brought to light an internal political polarization within the party. The divide became evident during an event organized by the party's internal faction, which openly expressed dissatisfaction with the current leadership and Secretary Gagan Thapa's style of functioning.

Members of the faction, demanding a special convention, voiced their concerns under BP Koirala’s portrait, highlighting longstanding grievances and calling for a major party overhaul. Several leaders criticized the party’s current direction, organizational management, and leadership approach, suggesting that efforts are underway to push the party towards division. The contest over who voiced their discontent more strongly among the critics pointed to a brewing rivalry within the party ranks.

While both factions within the Congress claim to uphold BP Koirala’s ideals of democratic socialism, they marked the memorial day differently. The opposing group visited a hospital in the morning, distributing fruit such as apples and pears to patients in remembrance of BP Koirala. Meanwhile, Secretary Gagan Thapa commemorated the day in the evening by distributing meals to senior citizens at an old age home in Rani Ban, Kathmandu.

In response to the allegations and questions raised by supporters of the special convention, Gagan Thapa is scheduled to address the party today. It is expected that Thapa will clarify his stance on the demand for a special convention, the party’s future direction, and respond to the accusations leveled against him.