Oli, Dahal explore fresh alignment amid election setbacks and probes

Nepal's political landscape is shifting as CPN-UML chairman KP Sharma Oli and Nepali Communist Party (NCP) coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal move closer to a potential political realignment. Insiders report active dialogue between the two leaders in recent weeks, aiming to map out future cooperation.

This renewed engagement comes at a critical juncture for both parties. The government has intensified investigations into the assets of senior UML and NCP leaders, adding a layer of urgency to their discussions. Oli, in particular, has openly advocated for cooperation with the NCP and other like-minded parties, citing what he perceives as an increasingly aggressive government stance. The recent arrest of UML vice-chairman Bishnu Prasad Paudel in connection with an asset probe has fueled this sentiment, with a senior UML leader stating that Oli is "ready to work with the NCP and other parties without any past baggage."

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KP Oli is ready to work with the NCP and other parties without any past baggage. In fact, the groundwork has already begun with opposition parties cooperating inside Parliament.

Both Oli and Dahal are also reassessing their political strategies following a disappointing performance in the March 5 parliamentary elections. The NCP has already committed to pursuing left-wing cooperation, while the UML is expected to deliberate on the proposal at its upcoming central committee meeting. With the UML holding 25 seats and the NCP 17 in the House of Representatives, a united front could significantly amplify their pressure on the government, both within Parliament and on the streets. They have already found common ground on several recent government decisions, including a controversial proposal to abolish trade unions.

The leaders are scheduled to appear together on June 28 at a seminar commemorating the 75th birth anniversary of late UML leader Madan Bhandari. This event will mark their first public appearance together since the Gen Z protest movement impacted the political scene. The ongoing anti-corruption investigations have heightened anxieties within both parties, with the UML labeling Poudel's arrest as political vendetta. Discussions are also exploring potential coordination in provincial governments, safeguarding national sovereignty, and defending the constitution. UML deputy general secretary Lekhraj Bhatta confirmed the ongoing talks, stating, "KP Oli and Dahal are discussing provincial coalitions and standing together against government overreach."

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KP Oli and Dahal are discussing provincial coalitions and standing together against government overreach. If there are any moves to weaken the constitution, the UML and NCP will stand as one.