Six policy directions adpoted by the RSP’s general convention

KATHMANDU: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane’s political report, presented in the ongoing 1st General Convention of the party, has set six policy directions for the party.

The report covers the party’s ideological foundation, economic outlook, and views on the governance system, and has proposed six major political directions.

The RSP has decided to formally adopt “social democracy” as its core political principle.

Social democracy as the core principle
The report states that the party will make social democracy its fundamental principle by balancing social justice, equal opportunity and democratic values. It also presents the view that while the party accepts the constitution, it does not consider it as a rigid doctrine or ideology.

Directly elected executive
The RSP has once again made its position clear in favor of a directly elected executive system for stable and accountable governance. The report argues that such a system is necessary for ensuring stable leadership and clear responsibility.

Fully proportional electoral system
The party has argued that a fully proportional electoral system should be adopted as an alternative to the current costly election system. The report concludes that such a system would be appropriate for ensuring equal representation of all communities.

Non-partisan National Assembly and structural reforms
The RSP has proposed transforming the National Assembly into an expert body free from party influence. The report also suggests making the vice president the chairperson of the National Assembly. It states that the structure of provincial assemblies and provincial governments also needs to be reconsidered.

Competitive liberal economy
On economic policy, the RSP has chosen the path of a competitive liberal economy. The report states that the state should limit its role to making rules, ensuring competition, and expanding opportunities, while production and entrepreneurship should be driven by the private sector and citizens. The report also describes economic freedom not merely as a matter of trade but as an important aspect of people’s freedom, stating that prosperity can only be achieved through wealth creation.

Review and revision of the constitution
Stating that it is time to review the implementation of the 2015 constitution, the party said there should be open debate on its achievements and shortcomings. Lamichhane’s argues that the country should now move in that direction based on the provision for review and amendment that was envisioned during the constitution-making process.