Sun Jun 29 02:20:46 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Former Nepali President Bhandari Re-enters Politics, Potentially Challenging Incumbent Prime Minister**

**Kathmandu, Nepal – June 29, 2025:** In a move that has sent ripples through Nepali politics, former President Bidya Devi Bhandari announced her return to active political life on Saturday, June 28, 2025, by renewing her membership with the ruling Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML). Bhandari, who served as President from 2015 to 2023, had relinquished her party affiliation upon assuming the largely ceremonial role.

The announcement, made at a function commemorating the birth anniversary of her late husband, Madan Bhandari, a prominent CPN-UML leader, has fueled speculation about her future ambitions within the party. Bhandari stated her objective is “giving continuity to the party’s political journey.”

Her return is being closely watched, particularly in light of her recent high-level visit to China and growing rumors that she may challenge current Prime Minister K. P. Oli for party leadership. Oli, who also serves as CPN-UML Chairman and has led the party since 2014, is reportedly seeking a third term. The Kathmandu Post, citing party insiders, even suggests Bhandari could challenge Oli at the next general convention.

Addressing the same event, Prime Minister Oli cautioned against internal division, urging party members to focus on the upcoming 2027-28 general elections. “Do not dream of splitting the UML,” Oli warned.

While there are no legal restrictions preventing a former President from returning to party politics, the move raises ethical questions for some, according to political analyst Dhurva Hari Adhikary. Bhandari’s return is significant, she previously served as Vice-Chairperson of the CPN-UML and as Defence Minister. Her re-entry into Nepali politics has become a subject of great interest and speculation in the region.

**Summary:**

Former President of Nepal, Bidya Devi Bhandari, has rejoined the CPN-UML, the ruling political party, nearly a decade after stepping away to assume the presidency. This move is stirring speculation about a potential challenge to current Prime Minister and party chairman, K.P. Oli, particularly given her recent visit to China. While legally permissible, the re-entry of a former head of state into active politics is raising some ethical concerns.

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