NRNA unity convention elects Mahesh Kumar Shrestha’s team unopposed, signals strong diaspora unity

KATHMANDU: The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) concluded its Unity Convention on Sunday, unanimously electing a new executive committee led by Mahesh Kumar Shrestha at Kathmandu’s Hyatt Hotel. The uncontested election, overseen by a high-level committee formed under a Supreme Court mandate, marks a pivotal moment for the global Nepali diaspora’s unity and its contributions to Nepal’s development.

Chief Election Commissioner, Senior Advocate Gopal Krishna Ghimire, confirmed the unanimous selection of the entire leadership team, including President Shrestha, and thanked supporters for ensuring a smooth process. The committee comprises six Vice Presidents—Sunil Kumar Sah, Buddhi Sagar Subedi, Khagendra Neupane, Lok Prasad Dahal, Manoj Kumar Shrestha, and Bishwas Deep Limbu—alongside Juna Gurung (Vice President, Women), Baburam Lama (General Secretary), and multiple secretaries, including Chintamani Sapkota and Devki Khatri Gurung (Women). Thakur Prasad Dhungana was named Treasurer, with regional coordinators like Dr. Balram Shrestha (Asia Pacific) and Prem Bahadur Gurung (Europe) appointed to strengthen global outreach.

The convention, organized by a committee led by Dr. Shesh Ghale, followed a Supreme Court order to unify the NRNA amid factional disputes. Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba, addressing the opening session on Saturday, emphasized the convention’s legitimacy. “The Supreme Court mandates one NRNA, and the Foreign and Law Ministries are aligned. I urge all factions to unite here and avoid politics,” Deuba said, calling for collective efforts to serve Nepal. Despite the Badri KC faction’s boycott over legitimacy concerns, the event proceeded with broad participation.

A ceremony for oath-taking and certificate distribution was scheduled for Sunday, solidifying the new leadership’s mandate. The NRNA, representing over 5 million non-resident Nepalis across 80 countries, plays a critical role in channeling remittances, investments, and expertise to Nepal. In 2024, remittances accounted for 28% of Nepal’s GDP, underscoring the diaspora’s economic impact. The new committee is expected to prioritize investment promotion, philanthropy, and knowledge transfer.

Analysts view the uncontested election as a step toward resolving internal rifts that have hampered the NRNA’s effectiveness. “Unity is crucial for the NRNA to amplify the diaspora’s voice and contributions,” said a diaspora expert. However, challenges remain, including rebuilding trust among factions and addressing criticisms of politicization within the organization.

The private sector and diaspora communities have welcomed the outcome but urged the new leadership to focus on transparency and tangible projects. “The NRNA must leverage its global network to drive Nepal’s economic growth,” said a Kathmandu-based entrepreneur. Climate resilience, tech innovation, and youth engagement are among the priorities stakeholders hope the committee will address.

As Nepal grapples with economic challenges, including a 19% poverty rate and youth migration, the NRNA’s role in fostering development is vital. The Shrestha-led team faces high expectations to deliver on promises of unity and impact. With the convention setting a hopeful tone, the diaspora watches closely to see if this leadership can transform the NRNA into a cohesive force for Nepal’s progress.