CPN-UML report identifies internal divisions and public distrust as causes for election defeat

A report prepared by CPN-UML General Secretary Shankar Pokharel identifies several key factors behind the party’s recent electoral defeat. The analysis, submitted to an election review and restructuring task force, attributes the loss to public dissatisfaction with previous government performance and a failure to address the aspirations of changing demographics, including Gen Z voters.

Internal party issues were also highlighted as significant contributors. Specifically, the report cites the controversy surrounding the non-renewal of former President Bidya Devi Bhandari’s party membership as a source of division. This dispute led to factionalism and organizational splits that extended to the grassroots level during the party’s 11th General Convention.

Other identified reasons include the party’s inability to master social media algorithms, the decision to designate KP Sharma Oli as the future prime minister following recent movements, and general public distrust stemming from allegations of corruption and poor governance by elected representatives.