Prachanda Ready for Public Debate; Balendra Shah Declines

Ahead of the upcoming elections, NCP Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachanda, has announced that he is ready to engage in a public debate with any political leader.

Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Prachanda highlighted his long-standing experience in public discussions. “I have always been active in debates. After the Gen-Z protests on September 8 and 9, I was the first leader to address journalists and editors publicly,” he said.

While UML Chair KP Sharma Oli has also expressed his willingness to participate, Rastriya Swatantra Party senior leader Balendra Shah, a first-phase candidate, has declined, citing allegations against Oli. The Election Commission has sought clarification from Shah following his refusal, reflecting rising public interest in debates among potential future prime ministers.