Jul 23, Kathmandu - Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa has declared former Vice President Gopalman Shrestha as a senior leader of the party. The announcement was made during the conclusion of the 44th BP Memorial and Jara Campaign at the National Assembly Hall today.

Thapa stated that the Central Committee would approve Shrestha’s appointment as a senior leader, emphasizing the importance of the decision. 

“I am announcing that Gopalman Shrestha will be made a senior leader, pending approval from the Central Committee meeting scheduled for August 28-29. His health is delicate, and the committee will ratify this decision,” Thapa said.

The party leader highlighted Shrestha’s valuable contributions in various roles, including interim president and vice president, and appreciated his dedication. Shrestha has been undergoing treatment in the ICU for the past ten days due to cancer. Despite his health challenges, he participated in the recent special congress held last Poush.

While the party constitution does not explicitly provide for a senior leader position, it has become customary in the Nepali Congress and the Nepali Congress Democratic Merger to designate prominent leaders—such as Sher Bahadur Deuba—as senior leaders. This practice has extended to individuals who have lost presidential elections within the party, allowing them to hold senior positions.