In a significant development for Nepal's political landscape, Rabi Lamichhane, President of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Balendra Shah (Balen), Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, held a high-level meeting late Monday night, signaling a potential alliance between the country's most prominent "alternative" political forces.
The meeting, which lasted over six hours, took place at the Kamalpokhari-based office of G21, a music company owned by RSP leader Asim Shah. The discussion began around 7:00 pm on Monday and concluded at approximately 1:30 am Tuesday. In a symbolic gesture of unity, both leaders departed the venue together in the same vehicle.
A "hopeful beginning"
Asim Shah, who facilitated the dialogue, described the encounter as a historic turning point. Taking to Facebook at 1:42 am today, he wrote, "Finally, a happy beginning to the story has unfolded. This is a reunion of two brothers, Rabi and Balen. It is not just a meeting of individuals, but a union of hope that the country has been searching for."
According to sources privy to the discussion, the two leaders held both private one-on-one talks and collective briefings with close aides.
The agenda reportedly focused on developing a shared platform for alternative political movements, mapping out future political strategies and potential power-sharing agreements and bringing all alternative forces under one umbrella ahead of the next general elections, according to Shah.
Escalating political activity
This meeting marks the second time the two have spoken since Lamichhane was released on bail last Friday, following a lengthy detention over allegations of cooperative fund embezzlement. Even during Lamichhane’s time in Nakhu Jail, informal channels of communication were reportedly active.
Political analysts suggest that the sight of the two leaders sharing a car sends a strong message to the traditional political establishment. While some leaders within RSP are pushing for a formal party merger, others are focusing on a strategic electoral alliance.
What next?
RSP Vice President DP Aryal stated that detailed progress regarding the discussions will be made public later today.
Lamichhane’s political schedule has been packed since his release. On Sunday, he held a private meeting with Prime Minister Sushila Karki. Sources close to the RSP President indicate he is also preparing to meet with Energy Minister Kulman Ghising as part of his efforts to intensify political activities and broaden his coalition.
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