The CPN-UML has lost all major power positions in Madhes Province. The Chief of Province, Sumitra Bhandari, appointed on UML’s recommendation, and Speaker Ram Chandra Mandal have both been removed following recent political developments.
Currently, UML’s Saroj Kumar Yadav remains the Chief Minister, but his removal is also considered “almost certain,” leaving the party isolated in Madhes. UML leaders themselves have acknowledged this situation, and the issue was discussed in Thursday’s Secretariat meeting.
Historically, UML’s relationship with Madhes politics has been strained. Despite criticism during the Madhes movements, the party had maintained significant electoral presence. However, the recent loss of all major positions at once has been taken very seriously by the party.
A UML leader claimed the recent incidents in Madhes happened without the party high command’s knowledge. The appointment of the Chief Minister and maneuvering of the Speaker were reportedly handled outside central oversight.
Calls have now begun within the party to demand CM Saroj Kumar Yadav’s resignation to control the political damage ahead of elections. Leaders say UML, being a major party in Madhes, has suffered an “unnecessary setback” due to poorly judged decisions.
Internal power struggles have also been blamed. In Janakpur, the rivalry between leaders Leelanath Shrestha and Raghubir Mahaseth is said to have contributed to the crisis. Mahaseth’s silence and Shrestha’s heightened activity have raised further questions.
UML Secretary Yogesh Bhattarai publicly questioned the missteps that led to such losses. He highlighted the dismissal of the Province Chief, the removal of the Speaker, the legal challenge against the Chief Minister, and growing internal contradictions, urging a serious review.
Bhattarai stressed the need to rebuild the party’s public image, strengthen internal unity, and reassess leadership roles in Madhes.
Similarly, leader Umashankar Argariya argued that while some mistakes may have occurred, UML is still a “powerful party,” and weaker forces have united to attack it. He stated that issues regarding the CM’s appointment process are under judicial review, and criticizing UML solely on that basis is unjustified
About the Author
