Political leaders urge RSP not to squander historic public mandate
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Political leaders urged the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) to responsibly use its public mandate for good governance and reform.
- Speakers at the RSP's general convention cautioned the party against repeating the mistakes of traditional parties, such as internal rivalries and power misuse.
- Leaders emphasized the need for constitutional reform and protecting national interests, with some praising Prime Minister Balendra Shah's problem-solving abilities.
Leaders from various political parties gathered at the Rastriya Swatantra Party's (RSP) first general convention in Bharatpur, Chitwan, urging the party to wield its significant public mandate with responsibility. They stressed the importance of focusing on good governance, constitutional reform, strengthening democratic institutions, and safeguarding national interests.
The mandate received by the RSP is remarkable. I wish to praise it wholeheartedly.
Nepali Congress president Gagan Thapa praised the RSP's mandate as remarkable but cautioned against repeating the failures of established parties. He highlighted how ego clashes and misuse of power have historically led to the squandering of public trust, warning the RSP against succumbing to the "intoxication of power."
Janata Samajbadi Party, Nepal chairman Upendra Yadav underscored the necessity of amending the Constitution, describing it as incomplete and imperfect despite its key elements like federalism and republicanism. He called for refining the statute by removing its anomalies.
They understood that the mandate gave them power, but failed to realise that power has its limits. It led to an intoxication of power and undemocratic behaviour, eventually causing the public mandate to collapse. I hope the RSP does not have to face either of these situations.
Janamat Party chairman Chandra Kant (CK) Raut characterized the convention as a "festival of revolution" and expressed solidarity with the RSP's aspirations. He lauded Prime Minister Balendra Shah as a capable leader, humorously suggesting that opposition parties might even propose a bill to restrict his public attire.
Although federalism, republicanism, inclusivity and secularism are crucial elements of the Constitution, it remains incomplete and imperfect. A historic responsibility has arrived to amend and refine the statute by removing its anomalies and shortcomings.
Rastriya Prajatantra Party chairman Rajendra Lingden warned that failing to meet public expectations would be a betrayal to both the country and the RSP's supporters. He contrasted the RSP's mandate with the past "kleptocracy" run by a select few, emphasizing the party's responsibility to enact the desired change.
This is not just an ordinary convention; it is a festival of revolution. I share the same dreams that you do. I am here not as a competitor, but as a collaborator and a well-wisher.
Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.