Rastriya Swatantra Party introduces new candidate selection framework for local elections

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has unveiled its ‘Candidate Selection Framework 2083’ for the upcoming local elections, aiming for a scientific and transparent process.

The party intends to discourage nepotism, favoritism, and financial manipulation commonly seen in traditional political parties, focusing instead on leadership selection based on merit and rule of law.

With the belief that “different politics should be reflected in internal governance, not just in loud speeches,” the framework requires aspiring candidates to pass through four rigorous stages and tests.

**Four Main Criteria for Candidate Selection**

The RSP has set a total weightage of 100 points for the final evaluation of candidates, divided into four parts:

Leadership Academy (25%): Every aspiring candidate must undergo mandatory training, which includes passing exams on subjects like the constitution, local administration, digital literacy, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Those who fail this stage will be eliminated from the process.

Political Proximity (25%): This criterion assesses the candidate’s political background, public image, electability, and past organizational contributions.

Inclusivity (10%): In line with the spirit of the constitution, priority will be given to women, Dalits, youth (under 40), and persons with disabilities. Special points will also be awarded to entrepreneurs returning from foreign employment.

Preliminary Election (40%): Party members will select their candidates through voting, referred to as a ‘primary election’, conducted via digital means using blockchain technology for secret voting.

**Eligibility and Stringent Provisions**

Candidates must be at least 21 years old and registered voters in the relevant area. The party has set a ‘cooling period’ of 45 days for new members and 90 days for those coming from other parties.

Additionally, candidates must declare their assets, provide a police character certificate, and affirm they have not been involved in any digital crimes or cooperative fraud. Individuals who have participated in federal elections during the same cycle will not be eligible to run for local office.

**Implementation and Financial Transparency**

To ensure effective implementation, a 21-member ‘Candidate Selection Framework Implementation and Coordination Committee’ will be formed to maintain uniformity across all 753 local levels.

A ‘zero tolerance’ policy will be adopted to prevent financial manipulation in candidate selection. Anyone found engaging in financial transactions or fraud will be immediately expelled from party membership.

The party describes this comprehensive process as the first public-oriented and democratic method of candidate selection in Nepal’s political history.