KATHMANDU: Delegates at the CPN-UML’s ongoing statute convention have openly voiced support for former President Bidya Devi Bhandari, despite Chair KP Sharma Oli instructing that her membership should not be discussed.

On Saturday, group discussions saw representatives from Sudurpashchim, Lumbini, Bagmati, and Koshi provinces backing Bhandari. Support in Gandaki and Madhesh provinces was limited, while no substantial debate occurred in Karnali. Sudurpashchim Standing Committee member Karna Thapa submitted a dissenting opinion after being denied floor time by Oli.

Delegates cited constitutional principles, arguing that a former president retains the rights of a citizen and should be allowed to engage in party activities. Other discussions focused on internal democracy, women’s representation in committees, and strict adherence to statute amendment procedures.

Reports from all ten provincial and structural groups will be presented on Sunday. Provincial leaders overseeing the discussions include Ghanashyam Khatiwada (Koshi), Lilananth Shrestha (Madhesh), Kailash Dhungel (Bagmati), Min Prasad Gurung (Gandaki), Radhakrishna Kandel (Lumbini), Gulabjung Shah (Karnali), and Krishna Prasad Jaisi (Sudurpashchim).