Aug 14, Kathmandu - Mohan Bahadur Basnet, a leader from an alternative faction of the Nepali Congress, has publicly challenged party President Gagan Thapa to implement his earlier commitment to step down from active politics after turning 55.

Addressing the national assembly organized by his faction on Friday, Basnet raised concerns about Thapa’s recent statement that he would leave active politics once he reaches the age of 55. Basnet pointed out that Thapa is currently over 52 and argued that, with regular elections ahead, he is likely to surpass 55 soon.

"Thapa had said he would leave politics after turning 55. Now, let's see him put that promise into action," Basnet urged. He emphasized that if Thapa advocates for youth leadership, he must first fulfill his own commitments publicly and practically.

"Leadership transfer should not remain just a topic for speeches but should be demonstrated through actions," Basnet insisted. He also called for the current leadership to open the path for the new generation to lead the party, suggesting that the existing leadership needs to create space for upcoming leaders.

Basnet accused the current leadership under Thapa of failing to steer the Nepali Congress effectively, citing internal dissatisfaction with the party’s organizational style and operations. He claimed that the party has been weakening and pointed out that under Sher Bahadur Deuba’s leadership, the Congress had secured a majority in local and national elections, including the federal parliament.

Criticizing the present leadership, Basnet stressed the need for reform in leadership style and organizational restructuring to restore the party’s influence and strength.