Kathmandu — The Rastriya Swotantra Party (RSP) has removed Gen-Z activist and scholar Tashi Lhazom from its closed list under the proportional representation (PR) system, citing what it described as geopolitical concerns.
The Election Commission has confirmed that Lhazom’s name was officially removed from the PR list submitted by the party. According to sources, the decision was taken without her consent, even though her name had previously appeared high on the list.
RSP leaders have indicated that the removal was linked to sensitivities surrounding Nepal’s external relations. Party insiders say concerns were raised that Lhazom’s political elevation could have implications for bilateral relations, particularly with China.
Lhazom, a researcher and scholar known for her work on Himalayan ecology, culture, and society, entered mainstream politics after being associated with the Gen Z movement and later joined the RSP.
This is not the first time her name has been withdrawn from a key political position. Earlier, during preparations for a cabinet formation under former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, Lhazom was reportedly set to become a minister but was removed at the last moment amid controversies surrounding her profile.
Sources familiar with past developments say that the Chinese side had earlier expressed reservations, claiming to possess information about Lhazom that could potentially affect bilateral ties. At that time, then Chinese Ambassador Chen Song, who has since completed his tenure, is understood to have raised the issue in discussions with Prime Minister Karki and several ministers.
According to party sources, similar concerns resurfaced recently, leading to the decision to drop her name from the PR list.
However, the move has triggered internal dissent within the RSP. Several central committee members have objected to the decision, arguing that it was based on unverified claims and amounted to injustice against Lhazom. They have indicated that the issue will be formally raised within party forums.
The RSP leadership has not yet issued a detailed public clarification on the matter.
