Possibility of Reappointment for Former Office Bearers at National Independent Party’s General Convention

The National Independent Party (Rashtriya Swatantra Party, RASWAPA) is set to hold its inaugural general convention from 7th to 9th Ashad. It is highly likely that the majority of former office bearers at the central, provincial, and district levels, including Chairman Ravi Lamichhane, will be reappointed during this event. Prior to the convention, RASWAPA has scheduled district conventions for 23rd and 24th Jestha, followed by provincial conventions from 26th Jestha to 1st Ashad.

The number of returning officials to their previous roles appears to be significant. Most of the core leadership at the central, provincial, and district levels plans to retain their positions. Chairman Ravi Lamichhane, who has led the interim committee for four years, is expected to continue as the party’s supreme leader. According to party leaders, several other officials will also be reappointed to the same positions.

Deputy Chairman DP Aryal, who previously served as acting chairman, has been appointed as the parliamentary speaker. As per RASWAPA’s constitution, there are provisions for three deputy chairpersons, including one female member. Currently, Dr. Swarnim Wagle, also the Finance Minister, holds the position of deputy chairman. Party insiders say that among the three deputy chairpersons, Wagle has been elected unopposed to the role.

In the event that elections are held at the general convention, leaders predict that candidates nominated from the Balen faction are unlikely to win. Alongside the view favoring leadership selection by consensus, there is also strong support for electing officials through voting. According to the party’s constitution, 99 members, including the chairman, must be elected in the initial phase.