Kathmandu, Jan. 14 -- The second special general convention of the Nepali Congress has moved formally towards electing new leadership after protracted unity talks failed to reach a deal, with General Secretary Gagan Thapa filing his nomination for the party president's post.

Thapa is the sole candidate for the post. His nomination was registered by his representative as the convention turned to the election process following days of inconclusive negotiations over the leadership dispute.

Pradeep Paudel and Bishwa Prakash Sharma have filed their nominations for general secretary. According to the Congress party statute, the party has two general secretaries.

Talks between the establishment faction and those backing the special convention...