KATHMANDU: The Nepali Congress has passed its amended statute during the party’s 15th general convention. The closed session held at Khulamanch on Monday approved the revised statute presented by General Secretary Pradeep Paudel.

Party spokesperson Devraj Chalise informed reporters on Monday evening that the central working committee will now consist of 297 members. According to the new provisions, the committee will include one president, one senior vice president, and four vice presidents, with a mandatory requirement for one female vice president. Additionally, there will be three general secretaries, with one seat reserved for a woman.

The structure also includes 15 joint general secretaries, while the treasurer will be selected from among the central members. The committee will also feature a spokesperson and a joint spokesperson. Open category central members will total 45, with 15 seats reserved for women in the open category. Each province is allocated four seats, including one woman, while the Kathmandu Valley is allocated two seats, including one woman.

Representation for various clusters includes 14 Dalits, 20 indigenous members, 18 Khas-Arya, 13 Madhesis, 6 Tharus, 7 from public relations committees, 3 from marginalized groups, 3 laborers, and 7 professionals. Furthermore, 21 youth members under 35 years of age from seven provinces, one person with a disability, and three democratic fighters will serve as central members. The central working committee will nominate the remaining 66 members.

While the statute was passed on Monday, the reports submitted by the president, vice president, and treasurer are scheduled for approval during Tuesday’s closed session. The nomination process for candidates is set to begin at 10 a.m. on Tuesday.