RSP convention extended by one day over management challenges

KATHMANDU: The first national general convention of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), currently underway in Bharatpur, Chitwan, is set to conclude one day later than the scheduled timeline due to increased delegate participation and logistical challenges.

According to party leaders, the convention is now expected to continue until Bhadra 10 after exceeding initial expectations in attendance.

The gathering, originally planned with an estimate of around 3,000 representatives, has seen participation rise to over 4,300 delegates, with numbers potentially reaching up to 4,500.

RSP lawmaker and leader Manish Jha said that participation from abroad alone has been nearly four times higher than anticipated, reflecting strong enthusiasm among supporters.

He acknowledged that, being the party’s first national convention, some organizational shortcomings and procedural gaps have emerged, which the party views as a learning experience.

Efforts are currently underway to build consensus within the party leadership.

However, leaders have also confirmed that if consensus is not reached, the party is prepared to move forward through a democratic electoral process.

Registration of delegates is still ongoing, and a separate team has been assigned to include those who were initially left out.

Jha also confirmed his candidacy for the post of General Secretary, stating that although he had initial hesitation, he is now fully prepared to contest.

He described the position as a major responsibility and challenge, expressing confidence in his ability to fulfill the role effectively.

Despite intense heat and logistical difficulties, leaders reported an energetic and enthusiastic presence of party workers throughout the convention.