Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) chair Rabi Lamichhane has defended his party’s commitment to the current democratic system and constitution, asserting that repeatedly questioning RSP’s loyalty to these principles is unjustified.

Addressing RSP cadres at the party office in Kathmandu on Monday, Lamichhane clarified that his party remains firmly committed to the present constitution and the existing system, despite attempts by some political forces to undermine the party’s republican stance.

Lamichhane expressed frustration with the constant scrutiny and challenges his party faces. “Our DNA is being tested repeatedly—what kind of party are we, where do we stand, and what do we believe in?” he said. “How many times must we prove ourselves? We have made it clear in writing, through speech, and with actions that RSP acknowledges the current constitution, the system, and has come to terms with necessary changes.”

He emphasised that RSP’s identity is rooted in respect for the democratic structure of the nation and this is non-negotiable.

However, he used the sceptical note on the status of democracy per se. “The place you are standing in is not a democracy. Those attacking us need to reflect on their own positions,” the RSP chair said, further claiming that the failure of the government to address the challenges surrounding constitutional amendments is a sign of the government’s lack of accountability.

In his speech, Lamichhane reiterated that RSP is an opponent of violence and that democracy is the highest form of governance.

He urged political parties not to use democracy as a shield to cover up their past shortcomings.

Furthermore, Lamichhane demanded a thorough investigation into the recent incidents of arson, vandalism, and looting carried out by monarchist groups in Tinkune, Koteshwar and surrounding areas on Friday.

He called for accountability, stating, “The government must not cover up the truth behind the Tinkune incident. Nepali citizens and young people have died, and the government should not try to cover up its mistakes.”

Also a former home minister, Lamichhane raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Ministry of Home Affairs, questioning its ability to provide security.

“How can the Ministry of Home Affairs, which failed to protect the public when 4,000 people gathered in Kathmandu, remain in power?” he asked.

He compared the government’s inability to maintain order in the capital city to its swift actions in sending police forces abroad to manage issues like inter-caste marriages.

Lamichhane, who has been facing multiple cases on cooperative frauds and money laundering, also hinted that he was being targeted by the government through conspiracies.

“I thought it would be best to stay calm and support the process, but the government is using this opportunity to attack me. They may think I will remain silent if they threaten me, but I am prepared to face whatever comes my way,” he claimed.

Lamichhane’s remarks come as he resumed his role as the party president after temporarily stepping down in December 2024 after being implicated on allegations of money laundering and cooperative fraud.

In his absence, vice-president DP Aryal had taken over the role of acting party chief.