KATHMANDU, July 19: CPN-UML leader Krishna Bhakta Pokhrel has claimed that the current ruling coalition will remain intact until the 2084 BS (2027) general elections, and that a “miraculous settlement” will soon take place between party chair KP Sharma Oli and former President Bidya Devi Bhandari.
Speaking at an interview organized by Reporters Club on Saturday, Pokhrel dismissed any possibility of rebellion within UML under Oli’s leadership, asserting that even imagining a new government alternative to the current alliance is unrealistic.
“There is absolutely no alternative to this coalition at the moment; it will confidently last until 2084,” Pokhrel said.
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He insisted that as long as Oli leads the party, internal dissent is impossible. Addressing questions about speculation surrounding former President Bhandari’s political comeback, Pokhrel acknowledged that while it may not be considered appropriate for a two-time ceremonial president to return to active party politics, the constitution does not bar her from doing so.
“In parliamentary democracies around the world, it is generally seen as inappropriate for someone who has held a ceremonial presidency to return to party or government roles,” he said. “Our view is that such figures should act as guardians of the party and the nation.”
However, he confirmed that Bhandari has already renewed her party membership and added, “If she chooses to return, there is no constitutional or legal barrier. We can’t deny her the right to compete.”
Pokhrel also emphasized that no conflict exists between Oli and Bhandari, and hinted that a dramatic reconciliation is forthcoming.
“From the depths of my conscience, I believe there will be no dispute between Comrade KP Oli and Bidya Bhandari,” he said. “A miraculous settlement between them will be seen very soon.”
