Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah has indicated he is ready to move forward by accepting RSP Chair Rabi Lamichhane’s leadership, as discussions on a possible political alliance ahead of the 2026 elections gain momentum.
Nepal Verified News
Fri Dec 26 2025
Talks on a possible political partnership between Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah and the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) have gained momentum, with Shah indicating readiness to accept Rabi Lamichhane’s leadership, senior party sources say.
According to an RSP leader, Shah has agreed for now to recognise Lamichhane as party chair, but with a key condition that he should be made prime minister if the party secures a majority in the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. Lamichhane has reportedly responded positively, leading both sides to begin drafting points of agreement.
Leaders involved said discussions are focused on the structure and terms of cooperation, though it remains uncertain when a formal deal will be signed. Negotiations are being led by Shishir Khanal for the RSP, while Kumar Byanjankar is coordinating from Shah’s side, with former lawmaker Ashim Shah facilitating talks.
Sources say Lamichhane has softened his earlier stance on projecting Shah as a prime ministerial candidate after Shah expressed willingness to formally join the party and contest the election under the RSP’s lauro symbol, raising hopes of a broader political alliance.
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