Responsible Statements from Ravi Lamichhane

April 17, Kathmandu – Ahead of the general elections, Raswpa Chairman Ravi Lamichhane’s statements have been balanced and factual. After securing an unprecedented near two-thirds majority, he has notably become calmer, more patient, and responsible.

Previously, during pre-election speeches, he was enthusiastically urging voters to reject those who came to ask for last wishes in their homes. He was also aggressive toward questioning journalists, stating, “We have not given anyone the monopoly over questions.”

As a former media professional, Lamichhane was strict with his language and aggressive in his expressions, whereas another leader proposed for prime minister, Balen Shah, was making an impact by speaking less.

On Wednesday, during the concluding ceremony of a two-day orientation for Raswpa MPs held in Gwarko, Chairman Lamichhane exhibited a complete change in style. As the leader of the party with a near two-thirds majority, he appealed to key sectors of national life to place their trust in his party’s leadership.

He also sought to instill confidence among the private sector, international community, and investors.

Lamichhane’s previous aggression appears set to be replaced by a new, more constructive approach. He acknowledged that the party had not had enough time to properly train its activists and consequently ordered a halt to the aggression and provocations observed on social media. He also requested his supporters to stop engaging disrespectfully with the opposition.

He urged party MPs to be servants of the people rather than rulers and directed them to advance with humility. Moreover, he appealed that, whenever possible, MPs should use healthcare services at government hospitals.

Without naming the Congress, UML, or the Maoist parties, Lamichhane expressed gratitude for their historical contributions, stating, “Thanking history’s contributions means Raswpa takes responsibility for the future.”

He said the party has earned people’s affection while enduring challenges for three and a half years since its establishment.

He conveyed that upon coming to government, the party will repay its value with achievements.

Acknowledging that citizens may feel disillusioned with leadership, he appealed to them to be assured, noting that while they waited 35 years, Raswpa will not take even 35 days to deliver. He instructed MPs to give up their previous habits of enjoying personal freedom excessively, emphasizing, “There is freedom within the party, but that also entails discipline.” He added, “This time we will rigorously implement the right to recall.”

Lamichhane advised MPs not to compete for ministerial positions, warning them to remain vigilant against selfish groups attempting to influence them under various pretexts. He reminded them not to treat this as a celebration, noting, “There is also a mother of a martyr here, who has lost her son and come to parliament.”

Sharing his earlier experience in government formation, he said, “From the very night the government is formed, attempts to topple it begin. We must remain vigilant.”

Lamichhane expressed unwavering faith in the current constitution and system and urged against harboring doubts. He highlighted that Raswpa has earned the trust that the Nepali people have not given to anyone before and instructed MPs to understand the importance of this trust.

Senior leader Balen Shah did not attend the event, and Lamichhane did not mention his name during his speech.

It was shared that Balen is currently recovering health-wise, but questions have arisen as to why he did not attend even this key party meeting.

To date, except once, Balen has not participated in meetings at the party office or secretariat. A seat was reserved in his name at the event.