In a seismic shift that could redefine Nepal’s political landscape, Rabi Lamichhane, President of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah (Balen), and Energy Minister Kulman Ghising are reportedly in the final stages of forming a unified political force.
The move aims to displace the long-standing dominance of traditional parties like Nepali Congress, CPN (UML), and CPN (Maoist Center). Sources close to the negotiating teams suggest that a formal announcement regarding the merger could be made as early as tomorrow.
Finalizing the "alternative force"
According to an interlocutor involved in the high-level talks, the discussions have moved beyond a mere electoral alliance. The goal is a complete party unification. A crucial meeting between Mayor Balen and Minister Ghising reportedly lasted until 1:30 am on Friday to clear existing hurdles.
"There is no bargaining over positions or personal interests here," a source told Nepalkhabar. "The unity process is now unstoppable. We expect a formal statement by tomorrow. The result will be definitive."
Leadership and symbols
Preliminary reports suggest the following framework for the new entity. Rabi Lamichhane is tipped to remain the president of the unified party. The 'Bell', which gained massive public mandates in the last election, will remain the official symbol.
Independent lawmaker Dr Amaresh Kumar Singh, who has been mediating the talks, hinted that Balen Shah could be projected as the future Prime Ministerial candidate.
"There is no alternative but for the new forces to unite. In this new alignment, Balen Shah's candidacy for Prime Minister cannot be ruled out," said independent lawmaker Dr Amaresh Kumar Singh.
A reaction to traditional coalitions
The urgency for this "New Force" merger stems from rumors of a growing "Grand Alliance" between the Nepali Congress and CPN (UML) for the upcoming elections.
Dr Singh claimed that the traditional powers are already aligning for the National Assembly and House of Representatives elections, leaving the "alternative" forces with no choice but to consolidate their influence into a single, formidable bloc to ensure a political breakthrough.
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