Kathmandu, Jan 17: The Election Commission of Nepal on Friday recognized the Gagan Thapa-led faction as the official Nepali Congress, sidelining Sher Bahadur Deuba’s group just days after the party split. The split occurred after reform negotiations between Thapa-Bishwo Prakash Sharma and Deuba failed. Both factions claimed legitimacy by submitting documents to the EC. The Thapa group held a Special General Convention from January 11–14, electing a 166-member executive body with Thapa as president, claiming support from 60% of delegates. The EC granted them the party symbol, flag, and headquarters. The Deuba faction rejected the decision, calling it a conspiracy and planning protests. Tensions remained high ahead of Nepal’s March 5 general elections.Kathmandu, Jan 17: The Election Commission of Nepal on Friday recognized the Gagan Thapa-led faction as the official Nepali Congress, sidelining Sher Bahadur Deuba’s group just days after the party split. The split occurred after reform negotiations between Thapa-Bishwo Prakash Sharma and Deuba failed. Both factions claimed legitimacy by submitting documents to the EC. The Thapa group held a Special General Convention from January 11–14, electing a 166-member executive body with Thapa as president, claiming support from 60% of delegates. The EC granted them the party symbol, flag, and headquarters. The Deuba faction rejected the decision, calling it a conspiracy and planning protests. Tensions remained high ahead of Nepal’s March 5 general elections.