UCPN (M) general convention kicks off in Hetauda

The seventh general convention of the ruling UCPN (Maoist) started in Hetauda on Saturday.

The inaugural function of the seventh general convention of the UCPN (Maoist) in Hetauda...

Party chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal inaugurated the general convention amid a grand ceremony at Huprachaur. The jamboree, first of its kind in over two decades, will debate party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal's political report that calls for "capitalist revolution to create the foundation of socialism", abandoning party's long-held strategy of "protracted People's War".

Some 2,500 representatives including observers and more than 1,000 volunteers are participating in the event, dubbed as "general convention of unity".

Party chairman Dahal and vice chairmen Baburam Bhattarai and Narayan Kaji Shrestha had reached Hetauda Friday evening.

Security has been beefed up in Hetauda in view of the Maoist general convention. Nepal Police and Armed Police Force personnel have been patrolling the city. The party has banned sale of alcohol near the meeting area, local reports said. The closed door session will take place at the Hetauda industrial area. The top leaders will stay in the industrial area itself during the general convention. Nepalnews.com