How to View the Revocation of Former President Bhandari's Party Membership?

Nepal's political journey is expected to progress based on constitutional, legal, and ideological principles. However, the recent decision by the CPN-UML to revoke former President Bidya Devi Bhandari's party membership has raised serious questions about the core values of democracy. This decision is not merely about removing an individual's party membership—it reflects deeper issues concerning internal power structures, ideological tolerance, democratic practices, and civil liberties.

A Violation of Democratic Principles

Bhandari, Nepal's first female President and a guardian of the constitution, has left an indelible mark on history. The treatment of such a prominent figure is not just a political decision but a test of Nepal's democratic culture. Her 45-year association with the UML—dating back to 2036 BS when she joined under Madan Bhandari—demonstrates her long-standing commitment. Ignoring such contributions reflects historical amnesia and political ingratitude.

Constitutional and Legal Implications

If this case reaches the court, it will set a precedent regarding fundamental rights, particularly Article 17 of the constitution, which guarantees freedom of thought and association. Bhandari, holding no public office and facing no criminal charges, has every right to renew her party membership as a citizen. Denying her this right under the guise of internal party matters is unconstitutional.

Undemocratic Decision-Making in UML

The decision was made abruptly, without proper agenda or discussion, violating party procedures. Even senior leaders like Karna Thapa, Surendra Pandey, and Yuvaraj Gyawali have expressed procedural disagreements, while others remain silent. This incident exposes the UML's increasingly centralized and impulsive decision-making, eroding internal democracy.

Ideological Hypocrisy

The UML's proclaimed ideology of "People's Multi-Party Democracy" (PMPD) emphasizes debate, criticism, and ideological diversity. Yet, Bhandari—a symbol of women's leadership in Nepal's communist movement—has been sidelined, signaling a decline in PMPD values under KP Oli's leadership. The party is becoming a "court of power," suppressing dissent and promoting sycophancy.

A Test for Democracy

Globally, former presidents often return to politics—examples include leaders in the U.S., France, and Sri Lanka. In Nepal, however, denying Bhandari this right undermines democratic norms. If courts uphold her membership renewal, it would mark a historic defeat for authoritarianism and reinforce constitutional values.

Conclusion

The revocation of Bhandari's membership is not just an administrative issue—it challenges democracy, civil liberties, and organizational integrity. If democracy is more than just elections, this incident represents a deep crisis in Nepal's democratic consciousness. The UML must restore internal democracy, ideological tolerance, and institutional respect—or risk being remembered for its political decay.

Politics is not about faces but the transformation of thought and behavior. The UML must realize this before history judges its decline.