RSP leadership transition following Rabi’s arrest

KATHMANDU: Following the arrest of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane, the leadership of the party has been temporarily entrusted to Vice President D.P. Aryal.

The central secretariat meeting of the party, which was held virtually late at night, decided to appoint Aryal as the acting president.

RSP has expressed that it views the ruling issued by the High Court of Tulsipur’s Butwal bench on Friday as a decision at one level of the legal process.

In light of this, the party has confirmed its decision to proceed with the previously scheduled Janayatra rally in Bharatpur, Chitwan, as planned, and make it a success.

The rally is set to take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday.

The party also raised concerns regarding the manner in which the police handled the arrest of President Lamichhane, specifically criticizing the action of entering his home and issuing a notice while he was inside.

RSP termed this action as unusual and illegal, stressing that such behavior is incompatible with the rule of law and cannot be accepted under any circumstances.

Key Resolutions from the Central Secretariat Meeting:

1. Acknowledgement of the Court’s Ruling: Raswapa accepts the decision of the High Court of Tulsipur Butwal bench regarding President Rabi Lamichhane. As stated in Lamichhane’s video message, the party respects the decision of the court and, in accordance with the constitution and law, will continue to seek justice through the appropriate legal channels.

2. Objection to Police Actions: The party strongly objects to the police’s actions during Lamichhane’s arrest, particularly their unusual method of entering his home and writing a notice within the bedroom. RSP has condemned this act as a violation of legal procedures and an unacceptable breach of citizens’ rights.

3. Janayatra Rally in Bharatpur: The party has confirmed the successful execution of the Janayatra rally scheduled for 2 p.m. on Saturday in Bharatpur, Chitwan. In line with President Lamichhane’s directive, the party has emphasized that the rally will remain peaceful and well-organized, despite potential disruptions, and has urged all members to maintain calm, composure, and vigilance.

4. Approval of Acting Leadership: RSP has officially approved the decision to appoint Vice President D.P. Aryal as the acting President following Rabi Lamichhane’s arrest. This transition was endorsed by the central secretariat.