KATHMANDU: The Nepali Congress faction led by Gagan Thapa, elected through a special general convention, staged a sit-in protest at the Election Commission on Friday, demanding official recognition as the legitimate party leadership.

Leaders of the Thapa-led group gathered in front of the Commission office in the afternoon, sitting on the ground in protest.

Earlier in the day, Acting Party President Purna Bahadur Khadka, along with other leaders, had submitted a formal application claiming official status.

In response, the Election Commission stated that its decision would be based on the Constitution, the Political Parties Act, the Nepali Congress statute, and its past precedents.

The Thapa faction has now intensified pressure on the Commission, insisting that it be declared the official leadership. On Thursday, the group had also submitted a request to update the party’s central working committee.