The Dynamics of the Relationship Between Ravi Lamichhane and Balendra Shah: Harmony and Tensions
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Following the promise, Ravi Lamichhane, chairperson of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), received acclaim after Balendra Shah (Balen) was appointed Prime Minister.
However, some questioned whether the internal consensus was truly without controversy.
Chairperson Lamichhane has now put those doubts to rest by publicly declaring that Balen will remain Prime Minister for the full five-year term.
Still, there is growing concern about how sustainable the political alliance between Ravi and Balen will be.
Nepal’s recent decade in politics has also been marked by confrontations between leaders of two influential parties.
Historically, when the party chairperson and the prime minister were different individuals, significant political disagreements or clashes have frequently arisen.
One Man, Two Swords?
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It is said that Nepali Congress leader Girija Prasad Koirala pushed Krishna Prasad Bhattarai, who had been a prime ministerial candidate at the polls, out of a majority government.
Leftist parties were no exception to such political tensions.
During the time when Jhalanath Khanal was chairman of the CPN UML and Prachanda led the CPN Maoist, Baburam Bhattarai served as prime minister, but smooth political transitions were difficult.
During KP Sharma Oli’s tenure as prime minister, despite having a majority from the Nepal Communist Party, internal disputes significantly affected the country’s politics.
Some argue that having two conflicting powers vested in the same person, or similar examples, do not bode well for political stability.
Political commentator Dambar Khatiwada says, “They call themselves a new political force, but it is unclear whether they will create a new political culture or maintain the old one. Power struggles, personality conflicts, and factional polarization are likely to increase over a few years.”
Khatiwada also notes similar patterns in the working styles and mentalities of Ravi Lamichhane and Balendra Shah.
Recent Disagreements Unveiled
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Controversy has arisen over issues such as cabinet formation, dismissal of ministers, the selection of the deputy speaker, and the Prime Minister Balen’s silence during the brief session of the House of Representatives.
There have also been reports of intense debate between the two leaders regarding the Home Minister’s appointment, and claims that the RSP supported the Labour Culture Party despite the party chairperson’s opposition. However, these reports remain unconfirmed either internally or independently. There was also an incident involving publication of party letters about minister dismissals.
“Even though Balen is prime minister, it seems Ravi Lamichhane is signaling that he is the ‘super prime minister’ in some respects or that only his directives are implemented,” Khatiwada analyzes.
During the first parliamentary session after the new government was formed, although Chairperson Lamichhane spoke, Prime Minister Balen remained silent.
Khatiwada considers this situation unsuitable in terms of parliamentary democracy, and sees potential for these tensions to arise within the party.
He also notes that Balen keeps distance even from his own leaders and parliamentarians, which could prove to be a negative factor.
“Those drawn to power tolerate this boundary to a certain extent, and the freshly elected will endure for a while. But as two years pass, this approach will appear exhausting and humiliating,” Khatiwada warns, “Such dynamics could lead to serious crises or perhaps compel Ravi Lamichhane to sacrifice for the country.”
The ‘Balendra Card’ Still in Play
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RSP chairman Lamichhane addressed parliament stating that government priorities, plans, and direction would be demonstrated through actions, possibly with or without verbal input from the respected prime minister.
Some interpret this stance as either a critique of Balen’s subdued speaking style or a defense of it.
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“They call themselves a new political force, but it remains unclear if they will create a new political culture or maintain the old one. Power struggles are expected to increase soon.”
However, founding general secretary Mukul Dhakal suggests that Balendra’s silence is not due to his inability but a deliberate choice to stay quiet.
Dhakal pointed out that Balendra’s brief speeches have made a sudden impact in Madhesh Province and that his speeches in Koshi, Chitwan, and Sudurpashchim provinces have drawn young audiences.
Nonetheless, questions remain as to why he remains silent in parliament.
Dhakal speculates that Balen might be staying silent out of fear of losing popularity after joining the government.
“Popularity cannot always be maintained while in government, and then speeches aimed at attracting the new generation will likely begin,” says Dhakal, “So, it’s not that he isn’t able to speak; he is saving his card for future popularity.”
‘Balendra’s Impulsiveness and Lamichhane’s Maturity’
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Lamichhane is a seasoned political leader familiar with major parties, serving as both MP and minister.
In contrast, Balendra lacks political experience, having become MP and Prime Minister simultaneously.
When the President addressed both houses of the federal parliament, Balendra appeared confused, highlighting his inexperience.
Khatiwada has observed that Prime Minister Balendra is politically less mature but tends to be impulsive during work. However, he is strong economically and ethically.
On the other hand, Lamichhane, linked to legal troubles and financial issues, faces an ethical crisis, which is not ideal for clean politics and transparent democracy, Khatiwada notes.
“Nevertheless, Lamichhane’s grip on the party is strong, and he is also outspoken,” Khatiwada added, “In such cases, he could evolve into an effective politician.”
Founding general secretary Mukul Dhakal believes that Balendra and Lamichhane have contrasting personalities, and recent developments suggest emerging power struggles and distrust between them.
However, both have a strong following across different social groups and strata, which makes it beneficial for the country’s interest that they collaborate.
Nonetheless, intensifying competition among opponents within the reform movement could spark conflict, likely starting from ranks below Balendra and Lamichhane.
How Long Will They Remain United and Why Might They Part Ways?
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“Both enjoy similar levels of attraction among the public, but competition among the main agents of change is growing, potentially leading to conflict.”
Yet, he points out that because the public supports both leaders, it will not be easy for them to grow distant.
Political forces connecting them have also played a role. “Both must understand that distance will render them both powerless,” Dhakal says.
Some analysts believe Lamichhane was compelled to support Balen due to legal controversies, and after being freed, is pushing for prime ministerial status or more authority.
Dhakal does not predict how long the two leaders will remain together, but expects future rivalry.
“One must become unpopular, or part on grounds of sacrifice or generosity, or one must leave the party; otherwise they will remain competitors struggling with each other, making relationship maintenance difficult,” Dhakal explains.
He describes their relationship as if two badges were pinned onto a single shirt — one above and one below — symbolizing an uneasy coexistence.
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