Rastriya Swatantra Party Madhesh Faces Conflict in Ward-Municipality Assemblies; Complaints Registered with Central Committee

Disputes have arisen within the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RASWAPA) Madhesh Province following the selection of representatives in various wards and municipalities that violate the party’s constitution. As conflicts escalated, the Disciplinary Commission has directed the indefinite suspension of ward and municipal assemblies in the districts of Saptari and Siraha. Internal tensions within the party intensified after a leadership announcement was made in Janakpur Sub-Metropolitan City, contrary to Election Commission directives.

Kathmandu, 5 June – Controversies have erupted during RASWAPA Madhesh’s ward and municipal assemblies due to the appointment of representatives and leadership contrary to party statutes. Complaints filed with the Central Disciplinary Commission have primarily originated from Madhesh, highlighting the highest number of grievances from the region at the lower-tier assembly level. The Election Commission has instructed the suspension of assemblies in these areas until disputes are resolved following objections to new leadership selections at the municipal and ward levels.

While investigations and final decisions on the complaints are pending, Disciplinary Commission Chief Bhuvan KC has mandated the suspension of ongoing elections. The Election Commission reported that among the eight districts in Madhesh, five are embroiled in conflicts, necessitating the halting of all assemblies in affected locations. Numerous disputed wards and municipalities are concentrated in Saptari and Siraha. Assemblies have been unable to commence in municipalities such as Jaleshwar, Ekdara, Matihani, Manra Shiswa, and Pipara in Mahottari district.

Similarly, in Dhanusha, assemblies have been suspended in Janakpur Sub-Metropolitan City as well as in Janaknandini and Ganeshman Charnath municipalities due to ongoing disputes. The unresolved conflict within the Ganeshman Charnath municipal assembly led dissatisfied party members to stage a lockdown at the district party office in Janakpurdham on Friday. The dissenting faction alleges that party leadership is attempting to legitimize the controversial committees, disregarding both Election Commission directives and the sentiments of the general party membership.