Kathmandu — The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which emerged as an alternative to Nepal’s traditional political forces, is now facing widespread criticism for allegedly replicating the same political practices it once opposed.
The debate centers on the party’s submission of its closed proportional representation (PR) list, which observers argue violates the spirit and intent of Article 42 of the Constitution of Nepal. The provision clearly mandates the proportional and inclusive participation of economically, socially, and educationally marginalized communities — including women, Dalits, Indigenous nationalities, Madhesis, Tharus, Muslims, backward classes, minorities, marginalized groups, persons with disabilities, and sexual and gender minorities in state mechanisms.
However, a closer look at RSP’s submitted list appears to tell a different story. The list reportedly includes:
– Renowned singers and celebrities
– A former Miss Nepal
– Billionaire business leaders
– A former Government of Nepal secretary
– Well-known doctors
– Prominent TV presenters
– National-level athletes
– Children of billionaire industrialists
By any reasonable constitutional or social standard, these individuals do not fall within marginalized or excluded categories. Many already enjoy significant social, economic, or professional privilege, with access to opportunities unavailable to disadvantaged communities.
The proportional representation system was never intended to reward wealth, status, or public recognition. Its purpose is to address historical injustice and broaden political participation for those systematically excluded from power. Allocating PR seats to already-privileged individuals effectively displaces candidates who genuinely require constitutional safeguards.
This controversy raises a fundamental political question:
If new political parties mirror the practices of leaders such as KP Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, what is the rationale for their existence as alternatives?
Nepal today requires more than rhetoric — it needs a clear, credible, and sustainable development direction. Repeating old patterns of elite-centric decision-making, while ignoring public expectations and youth aspirations, risks setting the country back years.
For a party that promised political transformation and good governance, RSP’s proportional representation list has become a test of credibility—one that it is now struggling to pass.
