The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in Nepal secured a significant win in the parliamentary elections on March 5. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated RSP President Rabi Lamichhane and senior leader Balen Shah on their success. Modi expressed optimism for enhanced India-Nepal relations under the new government.
With the RSP winning 125 out of 163 seats under the First-Past-the-Post system, they are poised for a strong majority in the House of Representatives. Additionally, the party is leading in the proportional representation system with over 48% of the vote share. India has been supportive of Nepal’s electoral processes, providing assistance since the 2008 Constituent Assembly elections.
The RSP’s election manifesto focuses on strengthening Nepal’s development partnership with India. Emphasizing a balanced diplomacy approach, the party aims to leverage global geopolitics for Nepal’s benefit. Addressing historical border disputes with India, the RSP pledges to pursue diplomatic solutions based on evidence and dialogue, moving away from rhetoric.
