KATHMANDU: The Rastriya Swatantra Party has emerged as the dominant force in the ongoing parliamentary vote count after contesting the election by projecting Balen Shah as its candidate for prime minister.
The party, which was established ahead of the 2022 general elections, had recently appeared weakened as its chairman became embroiled in several controversies. However, the political landscape shifted dramatically after Shah, the widely popular mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, joined the party ahead of the election.
Following his entry into the Rastriya Swatantra Party, the party has witnessed a surge in public support across the country.
According to the preliminary vote count of the House of Representatives election held on March 51, the RSP is leading in most constituencies while traditional mainstream parties have fallen significantly behind.
As of 10:30 am on Friday, the early results show the RSP leading in 46 constituencies.
In comparison, the Nepali Congress is ahead in five constituencies, the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist) in four, and the Nepali Communist in three constituencies.
Similarly, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party has taken the lead in one constituency, while other parties are ahead in just one seat so far.
Even before the parliamentary elections, the RSP had formally decided that Balen Shah would lead the next government if the party secured a majority. Following that announcement, the party saw a wave of support from large numbers of Nepalis both at home and abroad.
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