Kathmandu, Dec. 2 -- Factional rivalry has intensified in the CPN-UML, the second largest party in the dissolved House of Representatives, as it expedites selection of around 2,300 representatives for its 11th General Convention scheduled to be held in Kathmandu from 13 to 15 December.

The delegates selection process took more time than directed by the party as party members tried both approaches-selection through consensus or through voting. According to UML leaders, the results so far have signalled a highly competitive scenario.

Senior Vice-chair Ishwar Pokhrel has already announced he'd challenge incumbent party chair KP Sharma Oli. Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari's backing to Pokhrel is likely to make the race a competitive on...