KATHMANDU, July 6: Political meetings have intensified following former President Bidya Devi Bhandari's announcement that she is returning to party politics.
Leaders from major parties including CPN-UML, CPN-Maoist Center, and others have increased their engagements with her. Former President Bhandari herself has been facilitating and participating in a growing number of political meetings.
Amid this renewed political activity, Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah also met with the former President. On Thursday afternoon, Shah spent nearly an hour with Bhandari, accompanied by a CPN-UML leader. The meeting was arranged by a local UML figure from Kathmandu, who also escorted Shah to Bhandari’s residence in Bhaisepati.
KMC Mayor Balen Shah meets former PM Dr Bhattarai
UML Lawmaker Krishna Gopal Shrestha, elected from Kathmandu Constituency-9, was reportedly the one who took Mayor Shah to the former president Bhandari's residence. “MP Krishna Gopal Shrestha brought Balen to her,” confirmed a leader close to Bhandari.
Former Koshi Province Chief Minister Sherdhan Rai was also present at Bhandari’s residence earlier that day. The visit reportedly took place during a time Bhandari was engaged in some private family interactions.
Raj Kumar Rai, personal secretary to the former President, said he was unaware of the meeting and added that he is not always informed about all visits. Attempts to reach MP Krishna Gopal Shrestha for comment were unsuccessful.
A few days prior, Bhandari had returned the state facilities provided to her after her presidency. According to sources, Mayor Shah congratulated her for relinquishing the government perks, expressing his appreciation.
The same day, senior leaders from the Maoist Center also reportedly held discussions with the former President.
Bhandari has formally declared her return to active politics. On June 28, she confirmed the renewal of her CPN-UML membership.
Following her reentry into the party fold, political observers anticipate an emerging factional struggle within UML.
