Rajendra Pudasaini Elected NRNA UK President: A Bold Mandate Amidst Leadership Uncertainty

By Shiva K. Dhakal | National Press Corporation | uknepalPress.com

London, UK – In a significant political moment for the Nepali diaspora in the United Kingdom, Rajendra Pudasaini has been elected the new President of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) UK, defeating fellow candidates Govinda Kharel and Manish Khatri by a clear margin.Pudasaini secured 1,482 votes, while Kharel and Khatri received 977 and 496 votes respectively. The outcome signals a renewed trust placed in his leadership during a time when the organization has faced internal discontent and a crisis of direction.

A Mandate for Change

This election did more than just determine new office-bearers — it highlighted a strong desire for change within the NRNA UK. For many members, Pudasaini represents a fresh approach focused on accountability, inclusion, and reform. He has outlined a 10-point strategic agenda aimed at institutional transformation, diaspora unity, and stronger ties with the homeland.

His vision includes:
– Rebranding NRNA during a leadership crisis
– Promoting extended nationalism to engage all generations of the diaspora
– Fostering youth involvement and second-generation leadership
– Advocating for Gurkha veterans and senior citizens
– Creating a hub for all Nepalis in the UK: ‘Nepal House’
– Preserving and promoting Nepali culture and identity
– Ensuring citizenship continuity for NRN descendants
– Building expert networks and sustainable partnerships
– Attracting investment, knowledge, and innovation for Nepal
– Strengthening collaboration with UK-based Nepali organizations

His core message: “NRNA should be felt, seen, and accessible.”

Winners Across Key Positions

The NRNA UK election witnessed high participation across various leadership roles:
– Open Vice Presidents: Ujjwal Karki (1,884 votes) and Dr. Raksha Thapa (1,727 votes) emerged victorious.
– Vice President from Scotland: Ram Prasad Kandel secured a win with 1,608 votes; Shashi Karki followed with 1,174 votes.
– General Secretary: Diwakar Pandey won with 1,660 votes, defeating Punny Regmi (1,201).
– Open Secretaries: Krishna Devkota (2,309) and DN Kharal (1,879) were elected, while Bhupal Karki (1,356) remained close behind.
– ICC Members: Bishnu Kharel (2,325), Tungbhadra Bhusal (2,207), and Chhabilal Aryal (2,015) won. Deuman Izm followed with 1,853 votes.
– England State Council Chair: Ram Maya Bista Thapa was elected with 1,069 votes, while Ahalya Kunwar received 344.

Who Is Rajendra Poudel Pudasaini?

A native of Jiling-2, Nuwakot (now Belkotgadhi Municipality Ward 8), Pudasaini has lived in the UK for over 25 years. He is the son of the late Upendra Pudasaini and Lokmaya Pudasaini and is now based in Harlow, Essex. Pudasaini holds an MBA and BSc (Hons) from a leading UK university and has worked in the NHS and health sector for over 15 years. A grandfather of six, he has been active in community affairs since his student years.His activism began in Nepal, where he served as President of the Free Student Union at Saraswati Multiple Campus. In the UK, he rose through the ranks of the GMB National Union, where he now serves as Secretary of London North Centre, advocating for workers’ rights. He was also a council candidate in Harrow in 2014.

He has held roles including:
– General Secretary (twice) of Yeti Nepali Association UK
– President of Prabasi Nepali Manch UK
– Advisor to various Nepali community organizations
– Member of NRNA International Executive Committee (2021–2023)

Looking Ahead: Real Change or Symbolic Shift?

Pudasaini inherits an organization at a crossroads — caught between legacy issues and emerging expectations. His success will depend on translating his vision into action, rebuilding trust, and empowering the grassroots membership.The Nepali diaspora, particularly in the UK, is diverse and vibrant. Yet, past leaderships have often struggled to reflect that diversity meaningfully. If Pudasaini can rise above the politics of the past and deliver results, this election could mark the beginning of a new chapter for NRNA UK — one rooted in service, structure, and sincerity.