Number of candidates withdrawing from RSP’s PR list rises to six

KATHMANDU: Amid widespread criticism that the proportional representation (PR) system, which is intended to ensure the inclusion of disadvantaged and marginalised groups in the lawmaking process, is being misused, the number of candidates withdrawing their names from the PR closed list submitted by the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) to the Election Commission has risen to six.

The latest to announce his withdrawal is Dr Arnico Panday. Panday announced through a social media post on Monday morning that he had decided to withdraw his name from the closed list.

“I always seek and choose the path through which I can make the greatest contribution to the nation and society. Since I no longer see any justification for remaining on the list of the expanded closed list of PR candidates of the RSP in the prevailing political context, I informed my colleagues at the Central Committee meeting on Sunday evening of my decision to have my name removed from the closed list,” Panday wrote. “I will now focus my efforts on helping RSP secure victory in the upcoming election.”

Earlier, mountaineer Tashi Sherpa, singer Trishala Gurung, actor and television presenter Aasif Shah, businessman Sachin Dhakal, and Professor Mahendra Lawoti withdrew their names from the list.