Congress holds regional conventions in 13 districts; confusion continues in Kathmandu-3

Regional conventions at the federal and provincial constituency levels under the Nepali Congress's 15th convention are being held on different days depending on the district.

Due to heavy rainfall, the Central Election Committee had given districts flexibility to complete conventions originally scheduled for Asoj 10 by Asoj 13, according to their own convenience.

According to the committee, conventions were held on Sunday in 13 districts: Jhapa, Morang, Kathmandu, Myagdi, Baglung, Arghakhanchi, Pyuthan, Banke, Dolpa, Mugu, Humla, Kalikot and Surkhet.

On Monday, Asoj 12, conventions will be held in 29 districts including Taplejung, Panchthar, Solukhumbu, Dolakha, Dhading and Kavre, and on Tuesday in 9 districts.

In Kathmandu-3, however, the convention could not begin at the scheduled inauguration time of 1 pm on Sunday.

With no consensus among aspirants for regional leadership, there is confusion over how the process should proceed.

Competition has intensified further after several youth leaders announced candidacies for various posts.

Youth leader Shiva Shrestha, a candidate for regional chairperson, said he would accept the outcome of an election but would not accept backroom deals made in the name of consensus.

In Parsa Constituency No. 4, however, regional office-bearers and convention delegates were selected unanimously.

Meanwhile, half a dozen aspirants have announced candidacy for the post of general secretary at the central convention.