Kathmandu: The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is currently engaged in final preparations for selecting ministers in the new government to be led by Balen Shah. While the allocation of some ministerial portfolios has already been decided, discussions are ongoing for the remaining positions. Party अध्यक्ष Rabi Lamichhane is holding final consultations with candidates whose appointments are yet to be finalized.
Balen Shah is preparing to take the oath of office as Prime Minister on Chaitra 13. On the same day, plans are underway to form a relatively small-sized Council of Ministers.
According to sources, discussions are ongoing to establish a cabinet comprising 15 to 18 members. As outlined in its election manifesto, the RSP aims to limit the number of ministries to 18, and leaders have indicated that the cabinet will not exceed this size. There are also reports suggesting that certain ministries may be merged to maintain a lean government structure.
Sudan Gurung has been mentioned as a potential candidate for the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing regarding Manish Jha for either the Ministry of Tourism or the Ministry of Communications; he has also been proposed for the Youth and Sports portfolio. An RSP leader stated that deliberations are continuing over several candidates, although final decisions have yet to be made.
In the elections held on Falgun 21, the RSP secured 125 seats under the first-past-the-post system and an additional 57 seats through proportional representation. With a total of 182 seats in the House of Representatives, the party is preparing to form a strong government with a near two-thirds majority.
