Two prominent Nepali political figures—Ravi Lamichhane, chair of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah—have reached an agreement to move forward together under a single political platform.
The agreement was signed early Sunday morning following hours of discussions that began on Saturday evening. RSP Vice-Chair DP Aryal said the decision reflects public expectations. In a social media post, Aryal stated that the two leaders had come together in line with the wishes of the people and would now work jointly within the RSP.
After the agreement, Ravi Lamichhane said in a Facebook post that the understanding was guided by the country’s needs rather than personal ambitions. Another RSP Vice-Chair, Swarnim Wagle, confirmed the development, writing that Balen Shah is now an RSP leader. He said the agreement was signed at around 4:15 a.m. after continuous discussions that started at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday.
According to the agreement, the Rastriya Swatantra Party will project Balen Shah as its candidate for prime minister after the next House of Representatives election. The party’s name, election symbol, and flag will remain unchanged, and Ravi Lamichhane will continue as party chair. The agreement does not specify details regarding the party’s central committee.
Both sides have agreed to update the party’s details at the Election Commission by adding central committee members from Shah’s side. The agreement also states that the party’s organizational structure will be expanded after the unity process, incorporating youth activists and experienced experts. Responsibilities will be assigned based on merit, inclusivity, and public standing.
