Questions Must Matter in NC: General Secretary Thapa

Kathmandu, Jan 11 — Nepali Congress (NC) General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa has said that questioning leadership should be valued within the party, asserting that the NC is built on dynamic, conscious cadres rather than unquestioning followers.

Addressing the Special General Convention (SGC) that began in Kathmandu on Sunday, Thapa stressed that internal debate and accountability are essential to strengthen the party. He reminded the leadership—particularly the faction led by NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba—of the initiatives taken by the two general secretaries for a leadership transition in light of the changing political context and the rise of the Gen Z movement.

Thapa alleged that although the party president had earlier announced a leadership handover through a general convention before the House of Representatives election, resistance from within the president’s circle led to the postponement of the party convention.

“An election is not just about winning or losing; it is an opportunity to earn public trust,” Thapa said, emphasizing the need to protect the political system and the constitution.

Advocating a bottom-up approach to party management, he said all members are equal in the NC and criticized the culture of silence. “Those who remain silent and encourage others to do the same do not deserve answers to questions,” he remarked.

Thapa, along with fellow General Secretary Bishwo Prakash Sharma, reiterated the need for the SGC in view of the changed political environment and urged leaders and cadres to continue questioning how the party is being run.

Claiming adherence to the ideals of BP Koirala and Ganeshman Singh, Thapa said the NC must reconnect with the people and renew its public trust. He also recalled the party’s role during critical moments in Nepal’s history.

As several leaders from the Deuba-led faction stayed away from the SGC, Thapa called on them to participate in the convention the following day and acknowledged the efforts of party leaders and cadres in organizing the gathering.