Rastriya Swatantra Party faces leadership friction and membership shifts

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is facing internal coordination challenges between its parliamentary leadership and party organization. While Prime Minister Balendra Shah leads the government, Rabi Lamichhane chairs the party. This division of roles has led to friction, notably during the Bhotekoshi flood response, where the Prime Minister and party chair held different approaches to leadership and meetings.

Simultaneously, the RSP is experiencing shifts in its membership. Abdul Khan, senior vice president of the Nagarik Unmukti Party Nepal, and other leaders have met with Rabi Lamichhane to discuss potential affiliation. While Khan has stated the discussions focused on electoral cooperation rather than immediate party entry, other RSP members claim these leaders have already joined the party and are being integrated into the organization.