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Who is Prachanda

Pushpa Kamal Dahal, commonly known as Prachanda (“The Fierce One”), is a senior Nepali politician and the chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre). He has served as Prime Minister of Nepal three times:

  1. First Term (2008–2009)
    • Became Nepal’s first PM after the abolition of the monarchy.
    • Resigned after failing to remove the Army Chief, leading to a political crisis.
  2. Second Term (2016–2017)
    • Led a coalition government with Nepali Congress.
    • Focused on implementing the new constitution and preparing for elections.
  3. Third Term (2022–Present)
    • Initially allied with UML’s KP Oli, but later switched to Nepali Congress to stay in power.
    • His government is seen as unstable, frequently shifting alliances.

Prachanda’s Role in Nepal’s Maoist War (1996-2006)

  • Leader of the Maoist Insurgency (People’s War) against the Nepalese state.
  • Wanted to overthrow the monarchy and establish a communist rule.
  • Led brutal guerrilla warfare that resulted in over 17,000 deaths.
  • Signed the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in 2006, ending the war and bringing Maoists into mainstream politics.

Controversies & Corruption Allegations

  1. War Crimes & Human Rights Abuses
    • Accused of war crimes, forced disappearances, and executions during the Maoist insurgency.
    • Families of war victims demand justice, but Prachanda avoids accountability.
  2. Lavish Lifestyle & Wealth Accumulation
    • Despite being a “communist,” he lives in a luxurious mansion in Kathmandu.
    • Accused of amassing wealth through corruption and illegal deals.
  3. Corruption in Infrastructure Projects
    • Allegations of misusing government funds and granting contracts to Maoist-affiliated businesses.
  4. Political Instability & Power Greed
    • Known for switching alliances between Nepali Congress and UML to stay in power.
    • Accused of prioritizing personal political survival over national interests.

Prachanda’s Political Stance

  • Pro-China & Pro-Communist but opportunistic in alliances.
  • Supports Federalism & Secularism, opposing monarchy and Hindu statehood.
  • Seen as Power-Hungry & Corrupt, even by former Maoist supporters.

Despite his controversial past, Prachanda remains one of Nepal’s most powerful leaders. His rule is often criticized for instability, corruption, and failure to deliver on Maoist promises.

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