Rival NRNA groups unite in PM’s presence

Kathmandu, Dec.1: The comprehensive unity within the Non-Resident Nepalis Association (NRNA) has been formally announced, ending years of parallel leadership and internal disputes.

The unity agreement was signed on Sunday at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in the presence of Prime Minister Sushila Karki and Minister for Communication and Information Technology Jagdish Kharel.

The pact brings together the two factions led by Dr. Badri KC, elected President from the 11th General Convention held on October 17–20, 2023, and Mahesh Kumar Shrestha, elected President from the Unity General Convention held on May 3–4, 2025. 

Both leaders inked the agreement, marking a major step towards restoring organisational coherence.

The unity between the two NRNA factions was achieved through the special initiative and leadership of Minister Kharel.

The two sides have united under a ten-point agreement aimed at strengthening the Association’s structure and ensuring long-term unity.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Karki congratulated the leaders on the unity, calling it a milestone in ending internal differences and advancing the Association’s unified campaign.

She said, “We know that when we are divided, others take advantage. When we stand together, a positive message is sent, and if we remain divided, we will not move forward.”

Acknowledging the past contributions of NRNs, she urged them to continue investing in Nepal’s future.

The Prime Minister also urged Nepalis living abroad not to sell their property in Nepal and to keep their assets safe. She added that the reunification of the NRNA sends a message to Nepal’s political parties to unite as well.

Sustainable unity

On the occasion, Minister Kharel called for sustaining the comprehensive unity.

He said, “Today, comprehensive unity has been forged between the two groups of the NRNA. This signature is on paper, but I hope it also remains in the mind and the heart. Let this unity move forward through practical implementation and in a sustainable manner. We can progress together— not in division. I express my gratitude and best wishes to all who contributed to making this unity possible.”

Minister Kharel said the unity among NRNs has sent a positive message to the 8 million Non-Resident Nepalis worldwide.

He added, “During the ups and downs since the establishment of the NRNA in Nepal, you earned special respect, dignity, trust and honour. In recent years, this had declined because of divisions within the NRNA. Now, a great opportunity has come.”

Minister Kharel commended the support NRNs provided during crises such as the earthquake, economic blockade, and the COVID-19 pandemic, and urged them to rise above politics and take the lead in attracting more investment for Nepal’s economic prosperity.

He also praised NRN investments made despite risks and expressed confidence that the government would facilitate the issues raised by the NRNA.

NRNA President Dr. KC said the unity among NRNs has delivered a positive message to Nepalis at home and abroad and expressed his commitment to participating actively in Nepal’s economic development.

He emphasised that the NRNA should have a strong legal framework to prevent future political divisions.

President KC said, “We were confused for four years, and there were differences of opinion within the organisation. However, we were never different in our thinking or work ethic. This unity has made the organisation stronger. It is a unity of determination and trust— the unity of all 8 million NRNs.”

President Shrestha said the announcement of broad unity has inspired NRNs to unite emotionally and contribute actively to building a prosperous Nepal.

He said, “This unity agreement will remove long-standing misunderstandings. Making this unity sustainable will help bring knowledge, skills and capital to Nepal.” Following the unity, it has been agreed that the 12th General Convention will be held within next six months.

When the 12th general convention is held within that date, the term of the committee formed under the leadership of Mahesh Kumar Shrestha from the Unity General Convention, will be considered a full term, taking into account the term of the committee.

To conduct the 12th general convention in a transparent and credible manner, an 11-member Steering Committee will be formed, including individuals who will not be candidates for the upcoming convention.

Likewise, both sides have agreed to have their financial accounts audited by an independent third party to ensure transparency and reliability. 

All points of the agreement will be endorsed by the upcoming 12th General Convention of the Association.