Bhandari and Oli Hold Tense Political Dialogue at UML Headquarters

Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari visited the UML central office in Chyasal on Sunday for what became her first official political meeting at the party headquarters. The nearly two-hour-long dialogue with party chair and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli drew significant political attention.

While the event was framed by some UML leaders as a gesture of party unity. Bhandari reportedly raised concerns over public remarks by Oli-aligned leaders suggesting her UML membership would not be renewed and that she should refrain from political involvement.

She reminded Oli that her membership had already been renewed last year and said turning that issue into a political controversy was inappropriate. Bhandari also criticized the party for misrepresenting informal talks as official decisions, citing a past statement by UML publicity head Rajendra Gautam.

Oli, while stating there was no issue with her membership, urged Bhandari not to re-enter active politics, claiming it would send the wrong message and that she should preserve the dignity of her former position.

In response, Bhandari made it clear she intends to remain politically engaged and announced plans to visit the party office in Chyasal regularly. Oli reportedly welcomed her continued presence at the office.