Talks underway between Rabi Lamichhane and Balen
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairperson Rabi Lamichhane has stepped up his political activities soon after his release from Nakhu Prison. Without delay, he resumed party work and began holding a series of political consultations and meetings.
Lamichhane, who was freed following an order from the Butwal High Court last Friday, returned to Kathmandu via Chitwan. After reaching the capital on Saturday afternoon, he first met with the families of injured Gen Z protesters and those who lost their lives during protests. On Sunday, following a welcome programme and internal discussions at the RSP office, he engaged in talks with a government delegation led by Prime Minister Sushila Karki.
In addition, Lamichhane has already met Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, on two occasions. According to sources close to the discussions, one round of talks took place on Sunday. Participants included Balen’s aides Kumar Ben and Nishchal Basnet, while RSP Vice Chairperson DP Aryal and Central Committee member Asim Shah represented the party.
A source familiar with the meetings said that discussions on Monday focused on potential collaboration between the RSP and the “Desh Bikash Party,” which was registered by individuals close to Mayor Shah. The talks were described as constructive, though no final agreement has been reached so far. Sources also indicated that there was a proposal from Balen’s side regarding cooperation with the possibility of positioning him as a prime ministerial candidate in the next election.
The meetings were held at Asim Shah’s residence in Kamalpokhari over two consecutive days. An RSP office-bearer confirmed that the party is in dialogue with nearly ten different political groups and movements. According to the leader, earlier plans that had stalled during Lamichhane’s imprisonment are now being actively revived.
He emphasized that the party would not align with groups driven solely by seat calculations, stressing instead the need for capable individuals with a sincere commitment to national development to come together.
