Along with a drop in the number of Nepali peacekeepers, programmes related to health, education, disaster response, poverty reduction, and governance reforms will be hit.

Former prime ministers, party chiefs and popular mayors file nominations for the March polls.

Youth and new faces dominate the list, while select Deuba and Koirala camp leaders also secure tickets.

Party led by Gagan Thapa appeals to all leaders to join its bid to lead the nation to prosperity.

Commission will allow Deuba faction to register new party if it does not wish to come under newly elected leadership.

Gagan Thapa and Sher Bahadur Deuba factions submit rival claims as candidate nomination day for March 5 parliamentary election approaches.

Third division in the party since 1950. March 5 elections could be affected. Both factions claim legitimacy from Election Commission.

Party chief Deuba’s resignation or formation of an interim high-command at the crux of ongoing negotiations.

Thapa, Sharma demand recognition of convention, election ticket overhaul, and Deuba’s withdrawal from party control.

Party chief Sher Bahadur Deuba declines to attend. It is unclear if the convention will pick a new party president.

Convention backers call Deuba’s decision to parade youths at party office ‘confrontational’.

Wednesday announcement sets stage for a factional clash ahead of polls. Deuba asks leaders to shun Jan 11-12 event.

The prime minister cites public perception and the non-partisan nature of her government.

Deuba, Oli, Dahal and Madhesh-based parties are giving final shape to a seat-sharing formula.

General Secretaries Thapa and Sharma are adamant that the ‘mandatory’ special convention be held before the March 5 elections.