Kathmandu- Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane has formally returned to active party leadership after his release on bail, warning supporters against what he described as a “conspiracy to restore parliament” while immediately resuming organizational responsibilities.
Lamichhane was welcomed with fanfare at the party’s central office in Banasthali on Saturday, addressed party cadres and supporters, and later chaired the party’s central committee meeting—his first since being released from custody in a cooperative fraud case.
Welcomed at RSP Central Office with Fanfare
Lamichhane was received by party leaders, cadres, and well-wishers at the RSP central office shortly after his return to Kathmandu. Supporters gathered with slogans, music, and banners to welcome him back to active politics.
Lamichhane had arrived in Kathmandu on Friday after posting bail as ordered by the Butwal bench of the Tulsipur High Court. The party later confirmed that a central committee meeting would be held the same day.
Questions legitimacy of existing parliament, criticises silencing of public issues
Addressing supporters at the party office, Lamichhane warned against what he termed a conspiracy to “restore parliament,” questioning the relevance of the current House.
“I am hearing that there is a rush to restore parliament. Which parliament are you talking about? The one that cuts off microphones when people raise public issues?” he asked.
He urged supporters to remain cautious, saying, “Do not let this conspiracy blind your eyes.”
Lamichhane further argued that mere institutional repair was insufficient. “It is not enough to rebuild Singha Durbar. It needs to be replaced,” he said, referring to Nepal’s administrative power structure.
First meeting since his release from custody
The central committee meeting of the Rastriya Swatantra Party commenced on Saturday following Lamichhane’s return to the party headquarters.
This marks the first central committee meeting held after Lamichhane’s release. Prior to the meeting, he briefly addressed supporters gathered at the office.
Acting President Dol Prasad Aryal formally welcomed Lamichhane before the meeting began. Party leaders said discussions would focus on organizational matters and the current political situation.
Central committee meeting chaired by Lamichhane
Lamichhane has officially resumed his role as president of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, taking charge of party activities immediately after his release.
Following his detention, Lamichhane had handed over acting presidential responsibilities to Vice President Dol Prasad Aryal. On Saturday, Aryal welcomed him back as party president at the central office.
The ongoing central committee meeting is being chaired by Lamichhane, signalling his return to full leadership duties within the party.
