Rastriya Swatantra Party MP Rukesh Ranjit Discusses Political Journey and Bhaktapur's Transformation on 'Talk Forward'

Kathmandu. After the November 21 Constituent Assembly elections, Rukesh Ranjit's image as a social activist, blood donation campaigner, and businessman transformed into that of a Member of Parliament. Ranjit, who is also the district secretary of the Rastriya Swatantra Party in Bhaktapur, gained further prominence after the elections. The reason was his spectacular victory in Bhaktapur Constituency No. 1, a stronghold of the Nepal Mazdoor Kisan Party (NMKP) for 35 years, marking an NMKP 'ring out'.

This election result was unbelievable to many, as a strong narrative had been established that no one could shake the NMKP in Bhaktapur-1. This was true; even established parties like Congress, UML, and Maoist had failed to break the NMKP's dominance in this constituency. However, the situation changed in this year's election. With the nationwide wave of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, fueled by the Gen Z movement, and Rukesh Ranjit's electoral strategy, the outcome in Bhaktapur-1, considered 'unchangeable', turned out differently. Rukesh defeated NMKP candidate Prem Suwal by a margin of over five thousand votes.

Nearly two months after the election, during an interview on Rato Pati's podcast 'Talk Forward', MP Ranjit spoke openly about the NMKP's influence in Bhaktapur, its positive work, and public dissatisfaction.

'From the outside, there is an aspect of development that is visible and commendable. However, the treatment received by those with differing opinions from the ruling party was different,' he argued. 'There was discrimination in development, prioritization only of their own people, and even social exclusion of those with different views. People lived in a kind of fear. After the election, many said—'Finally, we feel democracy.' This result is an explosion against that oppression.'

Ranjit's background is in business. In parliament, he wants to play a role in formulating plans to solve the problems of the private sector and create an investment-friendly environment. He also has a reputation as a social activist and heritage activist. Many also know him as a blood donation campaigner. He is so passionate about blood donation that he even puts 'O Positive' after his name on his social media profile.

'I have been involved in blood donation campaigns for a long time. When I reached a point where I couldn't donate blood myself, I started putting my blood group after my name to raise public awareness and inspire others,' he shares. 'This also makes it easier for those looking for blood. I have entered politics with this same positive thinking.'

On 'Talk Forward', Ranjit expressed his views on various topics, from his political journey to his plans for Bhaktapur and the country, and even constitutional amendments.