Rabi Lamichhane warns of widening gap with public, says change unstoppable if people demand it

KATHMANDU: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairperson Rabi Lamichhane has warned that a growing disconnect between political leadership and the public could erode trust, urging party lawmakers to remain closely engaged with citizens.

Addressing the closing session of a party orientation program, Lamichhane said the tendency of leaders to engage with the public only during elections has widened the gap.

“There is a dangerous gap between leadership and the people. Many citizens no longer feel connected to their leaders,” he said, warning that if the trend continues, leaders may face a time when even their greetings are ignored.

He instructed lawmakers to stay continuously connected with voters and work in a way that earns public trust over the next five years.

‘People must celebrate their choice for five years’

Lamichhane said electoral victory celebrations should not be limited to the immediate aftermath of elections.

“People should feel like celebrating their decision to elect you for the entire five-year term,” he said, urging lawmakers to deliver results that justify public expectations.

He also cautioned against following traditional political practices, asking lawmakers to treat the current mandate as different from past electoral cycles.

‘No force can stop change’

Lamichhane stated that no force can stop change if the people demand it, emphasizing that the country is at a turning point.

“When people want change, no power in the world can stop it—only the right leadership is needed,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the party could lead a near two-thirds majority government, adding that he had anticipated strong public support even before the الانتخابات.

Lawmakers pledge good governance

Newly elected RSP lawmakers said they are committed to meeting public expectations and ensuring good governance.

MP Ganesh Parajuli said the orientation program focused on maintaining good governance, lawmaking, and delivering on public mandates.

Similarly, MP Hari Dhakal said the party aims to steer the country toward good governance and prosperity by learning from past experiences.

MP Bhumika Shrestha said she would work to ensure the rights of all communities are upheld.

The orientation program was organized in Lalitpur for newly elected House of Representatives members ahead of their oath-taking.