How do you feel about standing up against Prachanda in the elections?
He might be the Maoist chairman but for the locals in Kathmandu he is just another leader. Prachanda's standing is very feeble against the UML force in Kathmandu.

The Maoists have declared Prachanda their new president, why do you think he is weak?
According to my understanding, this election will choose the representatives for our new institution. What is the point of declaring yourself president when the CA polls haven't even been held? I don't think he is going to win the elections just because he is the chairman of the Maoists. Winning elections requires an integrated party and the support of the party workers and the people. In Kathmandu Prachanda lacks both.

With talk about poll sharing going around, you have been called a dummy candidate. Will you stand down if the UML has to make way for Prachanda?
Firstly, I don't see poll sharing happening, at least in Kathmandu. Secondly, he also stood for candidacy from Rolpa. Kathmandu, specifically region no.10, is a stronghold of the UML. The UML is certain to win in Kathmandu, so I feel that towards the end he will look towards Rolpa for a victory.

What is Prachanda's position in Kathmandu-10?
Every candidate thinks that they themselves will win. As for the position of Comrade Prachanda, it might be too soon to talk about it. While Prachanda's personality might have led many to think that he is the UML's chief competitor, our main competitor still remains the NC.

Prachanda is an international personality, you on the other hand are a district level leader, how will the people come to know and vote for you?
I am a local of this region. I have worked in the construction of the 10 electoral regions of Kathmandu. I do not need to tell the people who I am. They already know me. The party chose me to stand against Prachanda because of my image.

How are your preparations going?
Although Comrade Prachanda might be more experienced in matters of warfare, we are far ahead of him in the elections. There is a huge difference between getting involved in a war and winning people over through elections.

There are rumours about the Maoists turning Kirtipur into their area.
It is good to dream about making Kirtipur a Maoist area. Kirtipur is the native town of the Newars. While the Maoists are talking about ethnic self-governance, the candidacy of Prachanda in a native Newar town will raise many questions. Prachanda's candidacy might backfire on him.