Prachanda Seeks Cooperation with RSP for Upcoming Election

Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' is reportedly facing a tough challenge in Gorkha-2, the constituency from which he was previously elected. This time, it appears the seat might be won by Kabindra Burlakoti, the Joint General Secretary of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). 

This has caused significant stress for Prachanda. Although Prachanda defeated Burlakoti in the last election, the younger generation now seems to favor Burlakoti, making Gorkha-2 a difficult ground for the Maoist leader.

According to sources, Prachanda is trying to coordinate with RSP Chairman Rabi Lamichhane through various channels. Prachanda even visited the Nakkhu Jail to meet Lamichhane while he was in custody, a move seen as an attempt to secure his own position in Chitwan.

Prachanda visited the jail on Bhadau 4. Following this meeting, the RSP expressed its gratitude toward him. RSP Vice-Chairman Dol Prasad Aryal and spokesperson Manish Jha were also present during that visit. 

Sources claim that Prachanda, who is now the coordinator of a new alliance of various left-wing parties, feels he cannot win from Chitwan-3 based on his party's strength alone. As a result, he has assigned assistants to negotiate a partnership with the RSP.

Prachanda was elected from Chitwan-3 in the parliamentary elections of 2074 BS before moving to Gorkha. He is now trying to return to Chitwan-3 by partnering with the RSP. Chitwan-3 is also considered a stronghold for the RPP, where Bikram Pandey won last time with reported support from the UML. 

Prachanda had left Chitwan for Gorkha-2 previously because the UML supported Pandey. Now, seeing the RSP's growing influence in Chitwan, Prachanda has reportedly proposed a working alliance.