Rastriya Swatantra Party Government: Claims to Progress ‘Differently,’ Outlines Strategies

Following the oath-taking of newly elected members of parliament, interest has revived regarding how the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) will present itself in the legislature. With nearly a two-thirds majority, RSP spokesperson and MP Manish Jhala has asserted that the party will advance its responsibilities diligently, in line with public expectations. MPs from opposition parties have expressed willingness to cooperate with the policies the RSP plans to adopt moving forward. The RSP emerged as the largest party in the House of Representatives following the general election held after the Gen Z uprising in Bhadra, securing 182 parliamentary seats. The main opposition Nepali Congress holds 38 seats, CPN-UML 25, Nepali Communist Party 17, Labour Culture Party seven, Rastriya Prajatantra Party four, along with one independent MP.

Analysts suggest that with the diminished presence of established political parties, the RSP is compelled to distinguish itself from these groups. The party’s leaders do not dismiss this perspective. To explain their distinctiveness, Jhala noted that the majority of voters specifically chose RSP over other parties. “Previously, we helped strengthen others; now, we are the ones being supported,” he said. “Voters have put their trust and opportunity in us because others did not fulfill expectations. We understand this clearly and will act accordingly.”

Jhala also mentioned that preparations to engage differently in government along with parliament have already begun through orientation programs. He pointed out that MPs have been instructed to maintain vigilance regarding government activities. “At the orientation, Deputy Speaker Swarnim Wagle urged us to hold the government accountable and warned us not to be complacent,” Jhala shared. “This directive signals their alertness to ensure the government remains on the right path. We will continue this practice and strive to maintain an environment of constant vigilance.”