Kathmandu — The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has urged individuals appointed by previous governments to step aside, stating that Nepal is entering a government formation process backed by a fresh near two-thirds mandate.
Concerns Over Merit and Public Dissatisfaction
The party said past governments made political appointments based on access and influence rather than merit, competence, or subject expertise, resulting in widespread public dissatisfaction that needs to be addressed.
“We have not formally asked those who received political appointments from previous governments to resign. The government formation process is still pending,” RSP General Secretary Kabindra Burlakoti said. “However, earlier governments prioritized party workers and close associates over qualifications and competence. There is public dissatisfaction. If the new government continues with the same appointments, it would amount to continuing the same old practices. That is why we expect them to make way.”
No Immediate Action, Expectation of Voluntary Exit
Burlakoti said the party or the incoming government will not call for mass resignations at once. While past practices have included recalling ambassadors and withdrawing appointments from public institutions and government bodies, the party has not yet discussed what approach it will take this time.
However, he said the party expects those holding such positions to resign voluntarily. He added that the party has not formally collected data on these appointments. Based on informal channels, it estimates there are around 1,100 such appointees.
Burlakoti said their departure would allow the new government to appoint qualified, capable, and subject-matter experts and help deliver results in line with public expectations.
Election Results and Government Formation Process
In the recent House of Representatives election, the RSP secured a near two-thirds mandate, winning 182 seats — 125 under the first-past-the-post system and 57 through proportional representation.
Balen Shah, the party’s proposed prime minister, is scheduled to take the oath of office and secrecy on Chaitra 13. He will be elected parliamentary party leader on Chaitra 12. President Ramchandra Paudel will appoint Shah as prime minister in accordance with Article 76(1) of the Constitution.
