Internal rift looming in RPP as Lingden’s leadership faces scrutiny

KATHMANDU: Serious questions have surfaced about the leadership capabilities of Rajendra Lingden, Chairperson of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), following the party’s poor performance in recent local by-elections.

Allegations of his refusal to collaborate with like-minded parties and groups have fueled internal dissatisfaction.

The RPP failed to secure deposits for all its candidates in the local by-elections, with dismal performances even in Lingden’s home district.

For instance, in Kanakai Municipality-6 of Jhapa, the party’s candidate managed to secure only 26 votes, raising significant concerns about Lingden’s leadership.

“When the situation is this dire in the Chairperson’s home district, how can the party expect to move forward under his leadership?” remarked a disgruntled leader on condition of anonymity.

The party’s support among urban voters has also dwindled. In Kirtipur, RPP’s candidate received only 995 votes, while another ward candidate could secure just 64 votes.

Similarly, in Ward 16 of Kathmandu, the party’s candidate managed only 774 votes, signaling a loss of confidence among urban voters.

Efforts to unify with Kamal Thapa-led RPP Nepal and other pro-monarchy parties have reportedly been obstructed by Lingden. Senior leader Pashupati Shamsher Rana and others had called for broader unification to strengthen the party, but Lingden’s reluctance to move forward has frustrated many within the party.

“With declining voter support, the Chairperson’s refusal to consider alliances or unity has weakened the party even further,” said a RPP leader.

The upcoming Central Committee meeting, scheduled for January 24-25, is expected to feature heated debates over Lingden’s leadership.

Some leaders within the party are reportedly preparing to propose decisive measures, including possible leadership changes, to address the party’s challenges.

Even former King Gyanendra Shah is said to be disillusioned with Lingden’s leadership. Sources close to the former monarch revealed that he regrets supporting Lingden, as the party has suffered from division and a lack of meaningful progress under his tenure.

“Since Lingden took over, the party has not achieved any significant results,” a source quoted the former king as saying.