RSP and UNP Sign Agreement to Unify, Eyeing New Political Force

Kathmandu, Dec 29 :
The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and Ujjyalo Nepal Party (UNP), along with Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, have signed a tripartite agreement to unify the two parties, aiming to create a stronger alternative political force in Nepal.

Under the agreement, Rabi Lamichhane will serve as Central Chairperson and Kulman Ghising as Vice-Chairperson, while Dol Prasad Aryal and Swarnim Wagle will also take on Vice-Chairperson roles. The MoU was signed by RSP Chairperson Lamichhane and UNP Chairperson Anup Kumar Upadhyaya, with Balendra Shah as witness. The unified party will retain the RSP’s name and electoral symbol, the Bell.

The agreement calls for other civil, reform-oriented political groups and individuals to join the initiative, promoting democratic governance, prosperity, and social justice. Both parties have committed to building equitable advancement for Nepalis and establishing a pluralistic democratic governance system grounded in social justice and a liberal economy.

Drawing inspiration from the sacrifices of martyrs and victims of the September 8-9 Gen-Z movement, the parties pledged to address the concerns of the injured and the families of martyrs, while upholding the spirit of youth-led activism against corruption and poor governance.

The unification roadmap emphasizes a self-reliant economy, merit-based politics, zero tolerance for corruption, and good governance, aiming to make Nepal a respectable middle-income country within the next decade. The agreement also outlines the integration of UNP campaigners, youth activists, and experienced professionals into party structures, with responsibilities assigned based on merit, inclusivity, and public image.