KATHMANDU: The Communist Party of Nepal (UML) has abruptly postponed its Central Committee meeting, originally scheduled for August 28, following disputes over former President Bidya Devi Bhandari’s membership.

The Central Committee was expected to endorse political, organizational, and statute-related amendments ahead of UML’s second Statute Convention, set for September 5–7.

The postponement has cast uncertainty over the party’s preparations. The leadership’s decision to block Bhandari’s membership has angered several leaders. Although a party circular barred discussion, the matter surfaced in provincial committee meetings.

UML Vice Chairman Surendra Pandey said pushback against General Secretary Shankar Pokharel raised concerns of heated disputes, prompting the leadership to postpone the session.

UML’s head of the Publicity Department, Rajendra Gautam, said the delay was intended to gather and integrate suggestions from provincial and district committees before finalizing amendments.

Bhandari has opened a contact office in Thapagaun and continues political activity, underscoring her intention to remain active within UML.

The Central Committee is not expected to meet before September 3, leaving key organizational decisions unresolved just days ahead of the Statute Convention.