Rabi–Balen talks near final deal, new political axis in sight

KATHMANDU: Efforts to bring Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane and Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah onto a single political platform have entered a decisive phase, potentially reshaping Nepal’s alternative political landscape.

According to sources, marathon talks held throughout Friday by second-tier leaders from both sides have produced a preliminary framework for political cooperation.

Final discussions are scheduled for Saturday, with both Lamichhane and Shah expected to be directly involved.

As per the proposed modality agreed in principle, Lamichhane would retain full command of the party as chair, while Balen Shah would be projected as the prime ministerial candidate should the alliance secure a parliamentary majority in the upcoming elections.

RSP sources claim Lamichhane has responded positively to the proposal. The same offer was reportedly placed during a six-hour closed-door meeting with Lamichhane late Monday night.

Although Lamichhane initially dismissed such speculation during a visit to Chitwan, talks gained momentum after he met Shah again in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, on Thursday.

While broad consensus appears to be forming on leadership roles, significant differences remain over organizational structure and candidate selection.

Shah’s camp has demanded a 50 percent stake across party structures, including proportional and direct election candidates, as a precondition for full party unification.

The issue of an election symbol is also under discussion. On Friday, RSP leaders Shishir Khanal and Asim Shah held day-long talks with Shah’s representatives Kumar Ben and Bhupdev Shah.

Due to Mayor Shah’s busy official schedule, technical issues could not be finalized. A negotiating team member said Saturday’s meeting, involving both top leaders, is expected to deliver a conclusive outcome.

Balen’s Plan B: Desh Bikash Party

If talks with RSP collapse, Balen Shah is prepared to move ahead independently. He has completed groundwork to launch his own political party—Desh Bikash Party—with the election symbol Lauro.

Consultations with experts, business leaders, and civil society activists are already underway in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur.

Sources close to Shah say he is not interested in a mere electoral alliance. “If there is full agreement, he is ready for complete party unification; otherwise, he will move forward with his own party,” the source said.

Saturday’s talks are expected to determine whether Nepal’s alternative political forces converge into a new power center—or split into two distinct political paths.