KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress’s internal divisions have drawn sharp criticism from CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli, who called the party’s factionalism “a sad and concerning development.”

Speaking at the UML Capital Province Committee announcement, Oli questioned why Congress leaders were deliberately engaging in internal disputes.

He warned that democracy is under threat, the political system is weakened, and the constitution is being undermined, yet Congress remains entangled in unnecessary infighting. “Who is orchestrating this? Why are such things happening?” he asked.

Addressing UML leaders, Oli urged them to move past minor grievances and focus on the bigger picture. “Now is the time to fight for the country,” he said, emphasizing the need to protect peace, the constitution, and democracy.

Oli also criticized opportunistic political behavior, saying, “When democracy, hard-won through sacrifice and struggle, is under threat, some act as if they are heroes, raising flags for self-glory. How can we accept that?”

He further questioned the intellectual community’s sense of responsibility, asking whether they are committed to the nation or merely observing political theatrics. “The constitution and the country are at stake. Is democracy only for political leaders?” he asked.