Rastriya Swatantra Party faces appointment criticism and launches expansion

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is facing criticism regarding its approach to political appointments in Nepal. Despite campaigning on a platform of meritocracy and accusing previous administrations of nepotism, the RSP is now accused of similar practices. Critics point to controversial appointments within the judiciary and constitutional bodies, including the appointment of Manoj Kumar Sharma as chief justice despite seniority concerns, and the promotion of Judge Basudev Acharya following a decision to release RSP chair Rabi Lamichhane from custody.

Simultaneously, the RSP is pursuing an organizational expansion strategy. The party is launching a public outreach and election-focused campaign starting from the Lumbini provincial capital in Dang. This initiative aims to expand the party's presence down to the ward and neighborhood levels across all 77 districts to prepare for upcoming local-level elections. The campaign will focus on engaging directly with citizens regarding local government performance and policy initiatives.