KATHMANDU: The Rastriya Swotantra Party led by former journalist Ravi Lamichhane has been registered with the Election Commission.

Lamichhane had announced the formation of the party on June 21.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Lamichhane said that his party was registered with the Election Commission with the name Rastriya Swotantra Party. He added the party’s election symbol was bell inside a circle.

Two petition were also filed against Lamichhane’s party over the use of the word “Swotantra”.

The petitioners had argued that the use of the term ‘swotantra’ or independent in the party’s name confuses the voters and the identity of the candidates willing to contest as independent candidates also fall into crisis.

The Rastriya Swatantra Party has a 21-member central committee.

Lamichhane is to disclose the names of central committee members following the registration of the party.