Winning an election is a bit like being handed a large basket full of ripe fruit. At first, it looks like a reward. But after a while, the weight begins to show. If the carrier stumbles, the fruit spills. That is the position the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) now finds itself in, even as it is poised to rule the nation following its sweeping victory in the March 5, 2026 election.
The party has experienced a rapid surge in popularity. For a long time, the Nepali Congress and communist parties dominated Nepali politics. In the past, they were highly regarded in public perception. However, voters in the March polls pushed them to the margins. The Nepali Congress once embodied democratic leadership and raised hopes for strong governance and a prosperous Nepal. Over time, however, it became evident that many leaders were more focused on retaining power than improving governance. Meanwhile, communist parties followed a similar trajectory, beginning with more assertive promises. The unity and subsequent split between the CPN-UML and the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) further frustrated citizens.
The Maoist party rapidly gained influence by pledging to reform the nation and eliminate inequality. For some time, many believed its rise would transform society, but that momentum gradually faded. Internal rivalries, failure to dismantle entrenched power structures, and corruption allegations against leaders alienated the public. These factors partially culminated in the September 8–9 Gen Z protests that toppled the unpopular government of KP Sharma Oli.
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The RSP owes its ascent largely to public frustration. For many voters, the party represented an opportunity for change. It secured strong support from young voters, urban professionals, and rural citizens who craved a clean and efficient government capable of delivering results. This widespread mandate can serve as both a blessing and a burden.
The public expects the party to deliver innovative and effective governance. Citizens want corruption tackled, services delivered efficiently, and justice ensured impartially. They seek a government that listens rather than lectures. While such expectations can be met through sustained and patient effort, they are also demanding. Convincing the public will be challenging for the Balen Shah-led government, as no administration possesses a “magic wand” to solve all problems at once. Moreover, the country lacks the resources to deliver rapid transformation overnight.
Leadership within the RSP, particularly that of Rabi Lamichhane, remains central. His public image as an anti-corruption advocate has bolstered the party’s popularity. However, his legal entanglements related to the cooperative fund controversy remain sensitive. Whether he will be able to take the oath of office amid pending cases is a matter of concern for supporters. Transparency and accountability will be crucial. If he appears evasive, critics may question the party’s commitment to clean politics. By respecting legal institutions and addressing the issue directly, he can help maintain public trust.
Another delicate issue is the relationship between Lamichhane and Shah, who is set to assume the premiership. Shah gained prominence as a political outsider, and many voters view both figures as symbols of a new political wave. At present, their trajectories align without intersecting. However, when two strong personalities share the same political space, tensions can arise. It is akin to two powerful engines pulling the same train—if aligned, they accelerate progress; if not, they risk stalling it. Any serious disagreement between them could weaken the broader reform agenda. Ultimately, however, the real test lies in governance. Governing Nepal is complex, with slow administrative processes and ongoing economic challenges. Citizens are seeking jobs, reliable public services, and an end to everyday corruption.
Expectations of the party’s MPs must also be managed. Many are young and energetic but lack experience. While enthusiasm is valuable, it is insufficient on its own for policymaking. The party must invest in training its members in policy, administration, and institutional discipline.
The RSP now carries a basket filled with the hopes of millions. Its rise reflects a strong public desire for a new political culture. Party leaders, ministers, and the prime minister must not treat office as a means for personal gain but as a platform to serve the nation.
Nepali voters have shown great patience in the past. However, disappointment can quickly shift public sentiment, especially if promises go unfulfilled. The experiences of the Nepali Congress and communist parties offer an important lesson: both once enjoyed immense trust but gradually lost it through power-centric politics.
The RSP now has an opportunity to break this cycle. By strengthening institutions and governing transparently, it can meet public expectations. Even modest but consistent progress could mark the beginning of a new era in Nepal’s politics.
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