KATHMANDU: The Rastriya Swatantra Party is conducting internal assessments to finalize its cabinet lineup, with leaders from the camps of party chair Rabi Lamichhane and senior leader Balen Shah cross-checking potential nominees before government formation.
The party, which secured a sweeping mandate in the March 5 elections, is now deliberating over key appointments, including ministers, Speaker, chief whip, and other parliamentary roles. While Swarnim Wagle is said to be finalized for the finance portfolio, decisions on other major ministries remain pending.
Intense competition for key posts
According to party sources, more than 50 aspirants are in contention for ministerial and parliamentary positions, making the selection process highly competitive.
Balen Shah, who is set to be sworn in as prime minister on March 26, is expected to form a relatively compact cabinet of around 18 members, although the Constitution allows up to 25, including state ministers.
Key ministries such as home affairs and foreign affairs have attracted multiple contenders, complicating efforts to reach consensus.
Leaders from both factions are vetting each other’s recommendations. Nominees proposed by Balen’s camp are being reviewed by Lamichhane’s close aides, while candidates backed by Lamichhane are undergoing scrutiny by Balen’s secretariat.
Focus on integrity and expertise
During a recent meeting between Lamichhane, Shah, Wagle, and vice chair DP Aryal, leaders agreed that cabinet members must be transparent, competent, and free from controversy.
Party leaders say the selection process includes reviewing not only professional qualifications but also candidates’ broader public and personal backgrounds.
“We are evaluating more than 50 names separately from both sides,” a party source said. “The goal is to ensure that those selected are capable, clean, and not influenced by vested interests.”
The party has also emphasized appointing subject-matter experts to relevant ministries, prioritizing individuals with academic or professional expertise in their respective fields.
Co-general secretary Bipin Acharya said the party is committed to selecting qualified and credible individuals. “We have many capable leaders. Choosing the best among them is a ‘pleasant challenge’,” he said.
Moves to scrap political appointments
Leaders have also agreed in principle to revoke political appointments made by the previous government.
Under the plan, appointees will first be asked to resign voluntarily. If they fail to do so, formal notices will be issued, followed by removal if necessary.
General secretary Kabindra Burlakoti said the move is aimed at promoting good governance. “We are working toward a lean cabinet and will review all politically appointed positions,” he said.
Balancing factions, new faces
Although there is noformal quota system between the Lamichhane and Balen factions, both sides are seeking to accommodate their closw aides within the government.
Party insiders say Balen is keen to include trusted figures from his circle, while Lamichhane is also working to ensure representation for his allies.
At the same time, there is an effort to balance experienced leaders with new faces. Those elected directly are likely to be prioritized over proportional representation members, though both groups are expected to be included.
Leaders indicate that the final cabinet will reflect a mix of continuity and renewal, as the party prepares to lead the government with a strong parliamentary majority.
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