Nepal ruling party lawmakers show no signs of holding their government to account

Lawmakers from Nepal's Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) have adopted a conspicuous silence on the Lipulekh border issue, a significant departure from their previous vocal activism. The party, which now leads the government, has not raised concerns in parliament regarding India and China's agreement to reopen a pilgrimage route without Nepal's consultation.

This silence contrasts sharply with the RSP's past parliamentary actions. In 2025, the party repeatedly obstructed House proceedings, demanding investigations into alleged visa scams. Then-Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli faced demands to address parliament on the Lipulekh issue, with lawmakers like Ganesh Parajuli calling the India-China agreement a violation of Nepal's sovereignty and international law.

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The agreement between India and China to use the Lipulekh route without Nepal’s involvement is against international law.

Now, with the RSP holding a near two-thirds majority, the political landscape has shifted. The current Speaker, DP Aryal, who previously joined protests, now presides over the House, allowing business to proceed despite opposition demonstrations. The opposition parties, including the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML, are now employing tactics like protesting in the well of the House, a role previously occupied by the RSP.

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People are asking why the government is silent on such a sensitive issue. Parliament must arrive at a common national position.