The political scene of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has recently taken on the form of a mystery-filled spectacle, resembling a magic tale. By day, party vice-president Dol Prasad aka DP Aryal and chief whip Santosh Pariyar perform powerful demonstrations in the streets, demanding the release of party president Rabi Lamichhane. Yet, as night falls, these two leaders secretly enter Baluwatar to meet with the Prime Minister, as if entering a haunted site to chant spells.

Baluwatar’s Mysterious Night

Late one night, as the streets of Kathmandu lay deserted, Aryal and Pariyar made their way to Baluwatar, reminiscent of magicians venturing into the dark. Entering at 8:30 p.m., they waited over two hours before Prime Minister Oli finally came down at 11 p.m. Although the two hoped for political “magic” to work in their favor, Oli’s stern demeanor made it clear things would not go as planned.

Before they could even fully greet him, Oli sharply rebuked them, “You’ve burned my effigy, performed rituals, and now you’re here to dine after spoiling the offering, aren’t you?” His words left Aryal and Pariyar briefly speechless, as if their magic had failed.

Attempting to regain composure, the leaders quickly responded, “Prime Minister, the government’s treatment of Rabi Lamichhane is unfair. We are here to discuss this matter with you.” However, Oli’s reply was disappointing. “The government has no hand in Lamichhane’s arrest. Let the legal process take its course; the court will decide, not street protests,” Oli stated clearly.

Power Struggle Between DP Aryal and Swarnim Wagley

Lamichhane’s arrest has sparked another wave within the RSP—an internal competition for acting party president. DP Aryal, a trusted ally of Lamichhane, aims to step up as the party’s leader, while Dr. Swarnim Wagley, leveraging his intellectual and political experience, is preparing to take over as the next head. This rivalry has introduced new tensions within the party, where Aryal’s “magical” approach contrasts with Wagley’s “rational leadership,” casting a serious tone over the internal dynamics.

Luxury Detention: Special Arrangements for Rabi

Meanwhile, although Lamichhane remains in custody, he is not held in an ordinary detention setting. Instead, he is reportedly in a “luxury custody,” with privileges resembling those given to a hotel guest. Police officers serve him with attentiveness akin to hotel waiters, providing a distinct experience from typical detention. While this “luxury custody” does not free Lamichhane from legal troubles, it ensures he remains comfortable during his detention, sparking public doubts about government motives.

Daytime Spectacle, Political Mystery

The RSP’s recent moves resemble a magician’s act. Performing “spectacles” by day and meeting with the Prime Minister by night, these leaders are initiating a new chapter in Nepal’s political scene. Lamichhane’s detention is shaking not only his party but also the country’s political landscape.

All Bets on the Table

In their quest to release Lamichhane, RSP leaders are deploying both legal and political tactics to sustain his influence. The competition between Aryal and Dr. Wagley for the role of acting president is fueling internal power struggles, as each vies to position himself as the future party leader. At the same time, Prime Minister KP Oli is playing his own game, aiming to weaken Lamichhane’s party to assert his political dominance, which could hinder the RSP’s consolidation.