Rabi Lamichhane Vows to End Karnali Region's Use as Political 'Parking Lot'

Surkhet. Chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Rabi Lamichhane, has declared that the Karnali region will no longer serve as a 'parking lot' for any leader.

Addressing an election rally in Surkhet on Thursday, he emphasized the need to reconsider (retrofit) the structure of the Karnali province. "We are not saying we should abolish the province; we are saying the province should be properly structured, not haphazardly organized," he stated. "Karnali will no longer be a place to stash leaders."

Lamichhane portrayed the upcoming election as a day to change the nation's destiny and future. "This election is not an ordinary day; it is a day to think about the future of our own generation," he said. Responding strongly to those who claim elections will not bring solutions, he countered, "If elections don't bring solutions, what will? Protests? If so, I want to make an offer from Karnali—whether through the road or through the vote, come forward. We do not want to shed a single drop of blood; we want change through votes."

Recalling the establishment of a hospital in Kalikot in his capacity as a former journalist, Lamichhane asserted his deep emotional connection with Karnali. He said, "Karnali has been left behind; we have publicly released our pledge document from here to fulfill our promise not to let it be left behind anymore."

Chairman Lamichhane sarcastically addressed those claiming democracy is in danger, stating it is only in danger for those who flee by helicopter. "Democracy is in danger when that helicopter lands again in Singha Durbar or Baluwatar," he said. "Wherever it lands, it should not land in a place that changes and shapes the fate of the people."

He also urged the public to give the RSP a clear majority for five years. "Give us five years to work; if we fail, dismiss us politically by ringing the bell in the next election," he said. Targeting old parties and leaders, he asked, "Who has the courage? Look at Balenji (Balen Shah) and me; who else would dare what we have dared?"

Claiming that the RSP ensures representation for youth, women, Dalits, and Janajatis, Lamichhane appealed for votes for the 'bell' in the upcoming election to establish a stable government for five years.