KATHMANDU: At a time when factional tensions continue to test the Nepali Congress, former party president Sher Bahadur Deuba on Friday called for dialogue, consensus, and reconciliation, warning that prolonged internal conflict could weaken both the party and Nepal’s democratic foundations.

Speaking at the national gathering of the NC non-establishment faction that began in Kathmandu on Friday, Deuba said the party must turn its current differences into a stronger and broader unity.

He alleged that the party’s rules, statute, and established procedures had been violated in the name of the special general convention. As the issue is currently under consideration in the Supreme Court, Deuba said he would not comment further on the matter but expressed confidence that the judiciary would ensure justice.

Deuba stressed that emotional unity and reconciliation within the party are now essential. He warned that prolonged factional conflict could weaken not only the Nepali Congress but also democracy and national cohesion.

“The disagreements within the party should be transformed into a wider unity where justice is ensured for everyone and everyone’s sentiments are respected. Personal interests should not guide us; the interests of the Nepali Congress must be the foundation of unity,” he said. He also appealed to party leaders and workers to stand firmly for unity and place the party, democracy, and national interest above personal ambitions and prejudices.

Congress and political change

Deuba said the Nepali Congress has played a central role in Nepal’s major political transformations and argued that narratives diminishing the party’s historical contribution should be challenged politically.

According to him, the Congress led the struggle against the Rana regime in 2007 BS, the movement for the restoration of democracy in 2046 BS, the People’s Movement of 2062/63 BS, and the promulgation of the Constitution in 2072 BS.

“The Nepali Congress has led every major political transformation in the country, and I take pride in that history,” Deuba said. He also urged party leaders and cadres to make the younger generation aware of the key milestones in Nepal’s democratic journey.

Need for a national role

Describing the current political situation as highly sensitive, Deuba said Congress leaders and cadres have a responsibility to protect national unity and strengthen democracy. He said the party should take the lead in converting growing public frustration into hope.

Deuba noted that the country is facing difficulties in political, economic, social, and cultural spheres and said he would work to seek solutions through constitutional processes and broader national consensus.

He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing through extensive dialogue among democratic and national forces and said that dialogue, consensus, and cooperation should become Nepal’s political culture during times of crisis.

He added that nationalism, democracy, socialism, and the supremacy of citizens remain the guiding principles of his political life and that he would remain committed to those values throughout his life.

Building trust within the party

Deuba expressed hope that the national gathering would help create an atmosphere of trust within the Nepali Congress and promote greater dialogue and cooperation. He also wished the party success in reunifying and leading the country toward prosperity while safeguarding Nepal’s democratic system.