Prachanda Supports Rabi Lamichhane: Is a New Alliance Brewing?
Kathmandu – Former Prime Minister of Nepal, Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda,' has strongly condemned the government's "autocratic, undemocratic, inhumane, and vindictive behavior" against Rabi Lamichhane, Chairperson of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, through his official Facebook post. Prachanda has also made a stern appeal to the government to immediately cease such actions. This statement hints at emerging shifts in Nepal’s political landscape and strategic maneuvers.
A New Political Alliance in the Making?
Prachanda’s remarks could signal preparations for a new political alliance against the current government led by KP Sharma Oli. Recently, Oli’s government signed a new agreement under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) during a visit to China, which has drawn dissatisfaction from the international democratic community. Prachanda’s statement reflects his intent to strategically counter the Oli government. If the international community begins to reject Oli’s administration, Prachanda might explore forming a new government with Lamichhane’s support.
Impact on Chitwan Politics
Rabi Lamichhane, who won the elections with an overwhelming majority from Chitwan, shares a political connection to the district, which is also Prachanda’s home turf. Prachanda’s expression of support for Lamichhane could resonate with the people of Chitwan, generating sympathy for Lamichhane and aligning them with Prachanda for future elections. Despite Lamichhane’s independent popularity in Chitwan, Prachanda aims to leverage this dynamic in his favor.
Aimed at Lamichhane’s Supporters
While Lamichhane's support base has dwindled, but it remains significant. Prachanda's comments could be an attempt to attract Lamichhane's supporters to his camp. In politics, winning over the opposition’s voter base is a key strategy for maintaining a balance of power, and Prachanda seems to be working toward this.
Repaying a Political Debt?
It is also plausible that Prachanda is repaying a political debt to Lamichhane. During his tenure as Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Lamichhane had supported Prachanda’s leadership. Prachanda’s statement might serve as an acknowledgment of this past support.
Lamichhane’s Appeal from Detention in Pokhara
From his detention in Pokhara, Rabi Lamichhane has maintained a staunch stance against the Oli government, signaling a potential political movement. He has been in regular contact with his party leaders, urging them to exert pressure to dismantle the Oli administration. Lamichhane’s persistent activism from confinement highlights his resolve to challenge the government.
Conclusion
Prachanda’s remarks have added intrigue to Nepal’s current political scenario. This is not merely an expression of solidarity with Lamichhane but also a multipronged strategy involving the possibility of new alliances, strengthening his hold in Chitwan, and drawing closer to Lamichhane’s supporters. It reflects Prachanda’s strategic foresight and political acumen. The coming days will reveal the political consequences of this statement.
Nepal’s political landscape appears to be once again veering toward a new turning point.