Looking at the recent developments in Nepali politics as of early January 2026, the collaboration between Rabi Lamichhane and Kulman Ghising has not necessarily "ended," but it has entered a complex and challenging phase. While a high-profile agreement was signed recently, the practical implementation has hit several roadblocks.
On December 29, 2025, a landmark 7-point agreement was signed between Rabi Lamichhane’s Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and the 'Ujyaalo Nepal Party' (patronized by Kulman Ghising). According to this deal, Kulman Ghising was set to take the position of Senior Vice President (first rank) within the RSP. This move was witnessed and supported by Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah, signaling a massive "alternative force" coalition.
2. Kulman Ghising’s Current Hesitation
As of January 10, 2026, while Kulman Ghising has resigned from his role as Energy Minister to pursue this political path, he has not yet formally taken the ordinary membership of the RSP. In recent statements, he has hinted that although the agreement exists, certain internal issues regarding his role and the inclusion of his team members remain unresolved.
3. The Bone of Contention: Seat Sharing
The main friction appears to be over the Proportional Representation (PR) list. Reports suggest that Kulman Ghising’s faction requested the inclusion of 18 specific individuals on the RSP's PR list for the upcoming elections, but the RSP leadership has reportedly only accommodated 14. This has created a sense of dissatisfaction within Kulman’s core team, leading to the current "holding pattern" in their cooperation.
4. Rabi Lamichhane’s Stance
Rabi Lamichhane continues to maintain that the alliance is intact. During recent press meets in Chitwan, he stated that after Kulman’s resignation, the process of formally integrating him into the party structure is underway. He views this partnership not just as an election tactic, but as a long-term plan for national reform.
In Conclusion:
The collaboration is not officially dead, but the initial "honeymoon phase" has ended, replaced by tough political bargaining. Whether they move forward together will become clear during the final candidate registration for the upcoming Falgun 21 elections.