CHITWAN: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane has dismissed speculation about differences between the party and the government, saying both are working in coordination while respecting their respective responsibilities.
Speaking to journalists in Chitwan, Lamichhane said the party had adopted a policy of allowing the government to work independently and without unnecessary interference. He clarified that seeking discussions, offering suggestions and asking for explanations when necessary should not be interpreted as a sign of misunderstanding or conflict.
“There is no lack of coordination. The party simply believes that the government should be allowed to work freely,” Lamichhane said.
He also ruled out the practice of appointing another person alongside the prime minister to sustain the government or maintain unity within the party. He said the party and the government should function according to their respective responsibilities.
“We do not support the political practice of placing another person alongside the prime minister to sustain the government or maintain unity within the party,” he said.
Lamichhane said it was natural for the party to seek clarification when questions arose over government decisions, adding that the party was not obliged to endorse every decision taken by the government.
He maintained that the government must take responsibility for explaining and justifying its decisions. Referring to the party’s request for clarification over issues including changes in the responsibilities of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), he said decisions concerning security agencies were sensitive and that the government would have to explain them at the appropriate time.
“Whenever the party takes necessary steps to ensure that the government functions properly, it is the government’s responsibility to justify its actions,” he said.
Lamichhane added that the party would raise concerns whenever it identified the need for improvements in government performance, but urged the public not to interpret such interventions as disputes between the two sides.
Stating that the party remained committed to democratic values and norms, he said it would play a constructive role in guiding the government whenever necessary.
He also stressed the importance of allowing state institutions to exercise their constitutional and legal authority appropriately. Matters requiring investigation, he said, should be handled through established institutional processes.
Lamichhane called for strengthening institutions such as the police administration, judiciary, Press Council and National Human Rights Commission, noting that mechanisms already existed to address wrongdoing by any institution.
Responding to questions from journalists about relations between the party and the government, he urged the public to view the party’s approach positively, saying that allowing the government to function independently while offering suggestions and raising concerns when necessary was part of a healthy democratic practice.
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