# Rastriya Swatantra Party internal and electoral developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/rastriya-swatantra-party-internal-and-electoral-developments
> Updated: 2026-08-22T07:41:36.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 3.

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in Nepal has transitioned from addressing internal leadership friction to implementing organizational and electoral reforms.

Initially, the party faced tensions between President Rabi Lamichhane and Prime Minister Balendra Shah regarding policy direction, organizational appointments, and statute amendments. This period was marked by public friction, including a social media post by Shah stating, “sometimes you have to fight alone,” and scrutiny over the administration’s budget and land encroachment statements. The administration also faced criticism for a budget perceived to favor the middle class and business community over marginalized groups.

Subsequently, the RSP shifted focus toward parliamentary accountability and election preparation. The party introduced a monitoring system for lawmakers to document attendance and activities. Additionally, Chair Rabi Lamichhane began preparations for upcoming local elections by launching a ‘Rural Municipality Candidate Club,’ noting that while long-standing members may have an advantage for election tickets, the party remains open to ‘lateral entry’ for capable new candidates.

Internal tensions resurfaced following Prime Minister Shah’s absence from a crucial Central Committee meeting intended to discuss local election preparations. His absence fueled speculation regarding his relationship with Lamichhane, with some leaders suggesting Shah lacks faith in the party system due to his rare appearances at the central office. In response, Lamichhane urged leaders during a workshop to uphold democratic institutions and focus on long-term planning for the next 35 years rather than past grievances.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-22: Rastriya Swatantra Party faces internal scrutiny amid leadership absences

Tensions rise within Nepal's Rastriya Swatantra Party as Prime Minister Balendra Shah missed key election planning meetings, while Chair Rabi Lamichhane urged leaders to protect democratic institutions.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rastriya-swatantra-party-faces-internal-scrutiny-amid-leadership-absences

### 2026-08-17: Rastriya Swatantra Party initiates election prep and MP monitoring

The Rastriya Swatantra Party in Nepal has introduced new attendance monitoring for MPs and begun campaigning and candidate selection for upcoming local elections.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rastriya-swatantra-party-initiates-election-prep-and-mp-monitoring

### 2026-08-10: Rastriya Swatantra Party faces internal friction in Nepal

Internal tensions are rising within Nepal's Rastriya Swatantra Party between President Rabi Lamichhane and Prime Minister Balendra Shah, threatening the stability of the party's significant governing mandate.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rastriya-swatantra-party-faces-internal-friction-in-nepal

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Cite as: Rastriya Swatantra Party internal and electoral developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/rastriya-swatantra-party-internal-and-electoral-developments