Kathmandu, Dec 1: The long-running split inside the Non-Resident Nepalis Association has finally come to an end. The two rival groups announced their reunion on Sunday at the Office of the Prime Minister, bringing years of parallel committees and disputes to a close. Prime Minister Sushila Karki and Communication Minister Jagdish Kharel witnessed the signing.

The agreement brings together the faction led by Dr Badri KC, elected during the 11th General Convention in October 2023, and the group led by Mahesh Kumar Shrestha, chosen by the Unity General Convention in May 2025. Both leaders signed a ten-point pact that aims to rebuild trust, settle old differences and set a joint direction for the future. Minister Kharel played a key role in getting the two sides back to the same table.

Prime Minister Karki welcomed the reunion and said division had weakened the organisation for too long. She urged NRNs to keep investing in Nepal’s future and told Nepalis abroad not to sell off their property back home. She also said the unity shown by NRNs should encourage political actors in Nepal to set aside quarrels and work together.

Minister Kharel called the deal a chance to rebuild the Association’s damaged reputation. He reminded the gathering of the important support NRNs have provided during national emergencies, including the earthquake, the blockade and the pandemic. He asked the reunited group to look beyond internal politics and help draw more investment to Nepal. He also said the government would assist in addressing the concerns raised by the Association.

NRNA President Dr KC said the reunion sends a hopeful message to Nepalis everywhere. He acknowledged four difficult years of confusion inside the organisation but said both sides had always shared similar intentions. For him, the agreement reflects shared resolve among millions of Nepalis living abroad. President Shrestha added that the unity would help rebuild trust and encourage NRNs to contribute to Nepal’s progress by bringing skills, ideas and capital.

Both sides have agreed to hold the 12th General Convention within the next six months. An 11-member Steering Committee, made up of individuals who will not run in the next election, will manage the process. They also decided to have their financial accounts reviewed by an independent auditor. The full agreement will be endorsed at the upcoming convention.

People’s News Monitoring Service

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