Oli's CPN-UML leadership challenged as allies defect before key party vote

• Former Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli faces growing dissent within his CPN-UML party during its general convention.
• Several prominent leaders from Oli's faction, including Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Krishna Gopal Shrestha, and Gokul Baskota, have switched allegiance.
• The dissent emerged as voting for top party positions, including party chair, general secretary, and secretaries, is scheduled.
• KP Sharma Oli and senior vice-chair Ishwar Pokharel have filed candidacies for the post of party chair.
• Over 300 central positions, including 19 office bearers, are being elected at the general convention in Kathmandu.

Why It Matters: Oli's weakening party control could reshape Nepal's political future.