The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is facing a significant crisis. On Sunday, party president Rabi Lamichhane was charged in Kaski District Court with three cases, including money laundering, with a claim of embezzlement amounting to NPR 27 Crore. This has sent ripples throughout the party.
Following the charges of organized crime, money laundering, and cooperative fraud, the District Police Office has sent a letter recommending the suspension of Rabi’s parliamentary position to the Federal Parliament Secretariat. Speaker Devraj Ghimire is currently consulting on the matter.
DP Aryal Appointed as Acting President
Amidst the controversy, RSP has appointed Vice President DP Aryal as the acting president. Previously, the party had not designated anyone as an acting president after Rabi’s arrest on Kartik 2. Discussions regarding an interim leader had occurred while Rabi was in custody, but no decision was made until now. Following Sunday’s developments, Aryal was officially appointed.
Why Did Swarnim Decline the Role?
According to the party’s charter, seniority suggests that Vice President Dr. Swarnim Wagle should have been chosen as the acting president. However, Wagle reportedly declined the position. Furthermore, Rabi’s suggestion to prioritize Aryal, as a senior member and founding leader of the party, influenced the decision.
Rabi Lamichhane has yet to appear in court for his statement. If the court orders his detention, Aryal will lead the party in his absence. If Rabi is released, he will return to the leadership. However, legal uncertainties have cast doubt over the party’s plans, including its much-anticipated general convention.
Political analysts have criticized the RSP for overly relying on Rabi’s leadership without presenting viable alternatives. Analyst Surendra Labh commented, “The party has failed to show that it can function without Rabi. Now is the time to present a dynamic and effective leader to the people.”
The need for ideological and strategic leadership has been emphasized within the party. Dr. Swarnim Wagle, known for his international reputation and intellectual capabilities, is seen as a potential alternative leader. However, despite his growing influence within the party, Wagle has expressed no interest in assuming the acting presidency.
Within the RSP, DP Aryal has faced criticism for controversies linked to his involvement in the manpower business. Despite this, Aryal’s status as a founding member and his organizational influence within the party have been instrumental in his appointment as acting president. With Rabi’s legal battles ongoing, the party has been compelled to consider alternative leadership options.
Analysts have stressed the need for the RSP to move forward with fresh perspectives and strategies. Political analyst Indra Adhikari remarked, “Instead of glorifying Rabi Lamichhane, the party must focus on new leadership and present itself dynamically to the people.”
The Road Ahead for RSP
The RSP was established on 2079 Asar 7 but has yet to hold its general convention, leaving the party organizationally vulnerable. If Rabi is imprisoned, the party will face significant leadership challenges. Even if he is not jailed, his ongoing legal battles have raised ethical questions about his presidency.
The RSP must now address its internal divisions and show the public that it is not solely reliant on Rabi. As public expectations of a new political force remain high, the party must redefine its leadership and direction to meet these demands.
