RSP trains lawmakers as NC, UML review poll setback

KATHMANDU, March 18: As it moves closer to forming a government with a near two-thirds majority, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has begun training its newly elected lawmakers. Meanwhile, traditional rivals Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-UML, both falling short of expectations in the polls, have turned inward, launching reviews of their electoral setbacks.

As it prepares to take the reins of power, the RSP has organized training and orientation programs for its lawmakers on parliamentary roles and procedures. The two-day residential program will run until Wednesday. At the same time, leaders and cadres of the NC and UML are holding internal meetings to assess the reasons behind their defeat, collecting feedback from lower party units.

The RSP has been engaging experts to train its lawmakers on parliamentary conduct and responsibilities. However, Party Chair Rabi Lamichhane and senior leader Balendra Shah were absent from the opening session, attended by most of the party’s 182 lawmakers. Lamichhane leads the party, while Shah—its senior figure—has been projected as its prime ministerial candidate.

Speaking at the opening, Vice Chair DP Aryal said the party’s strong mandate reflects public trust in its leadership. He assured participants that both Lamichhane and Shah would attend the second day, after their absence drew questions.

Addressing lawmakers, Aryal said the electoral mandate carries a heavy responsibility. “It is rare in global electoral history for a single party to secure 70 percent of the votes cast. This opportunity has not come easily, and we must take it seriously,” he said.

Calling it a “golden opportunity,” Aryal urged lawmakers to rise to the moment. “At this critical juncture, the government we are about to form, and the responsibility we carry, are truly significant. The Gen-Z generation is watching us closely. We must prove our dedication and capability for the people and the nation,” he added.

Vice Chair Swarnim Wagle stressed accountability, even under a single-party government. “We are here to make laws, but also to review, monitor, and oversee the government. Even if it is our own, we must speak up when it goes wrong,” he said.

He also urged lawmakers to strongly raise constituents’ issues in Parliament and remain focused on policy debates, development, and socio-economic concerns. With unprecedented public support, he said, the party must now deliver on expectations.

The training covers parliamentary procedures, legislative processes, existing laws, bill drafting, and the code of conduct. On the first day, Wagle briefed lawmakers on the party’s manifesto and their responsibilities, emphasising accountability.

Former Parliament Secretary Suresh Adhikari outlined the structure and functioning of Parliament, while former Law Secretary Toyanath Adhikari spoke on lawmaking. Researcher Dovan Rai led a session on digital-age communication and public engagement.

Lawmakers also introduced themselves, with some—including Sobita Gautam from Chitwan-3—sharing their experiences. Party Chair Lamichhane is expected to conclude the program on Wednesday.

As the RSP focuses on preparation, the NC is preparing to convene a Central Working Committee meeting this week to formally review its defeat. The UML is also conducting internal assessments. Although Chair KP Sharma Oli is in mourning, General Secretary Shankar Pokharel has been holding virtual meetings and has asked party units to submit written reports explaining the loss.