Rastriya Swatantra Party announces 13-point selection criteria targeting local elections

Kathmandu. The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has published a 13-point candidate selection outline targeting the upcoming local level elections. The party has stated that it has introduced the work procedure with the objective of electing the competent leadership through a scientific, objective and transparent system.

According to the RSP, the candidate selection process will now be based on measurable criteria, evidences and facts, rising above emotions, reach and personal influence. The party believes that all stages from evaluation to final decision will be compulsorily documented, which will ensure transparency and testability.

According to the RSP, the practice of selecting the ‘right person, right place’ would be developed by incorporating the members who have contributed continuously to the party building as well as the capable, experienced and trusted people from different sectors of the society. The aspirants will be imparted training on local governance, public service, policy-making, good governance, public finance and citizen participation, among other topics.

The RSP has adopted the policy of identifying the leadership keeping the local needs and service delivery at the centre. The goal is to strengthen democratic, participatory and competitive practices from the grassroots level by balancing the rights of structures from ward to municipality level.

Women, Dalits, Janajatis, Madhesis, Tharus, Muslims, minorities, persons with disabilities, youths, farmers, workers and other diverse communities will be provided equal opportunities. This is expected to help build leadership that reflects the true diversity of the society.

Besides a candidate’s popularity, public conduct, honesty, financial transparency, status free from conflict of interest and legal credibility would also be the major criteria for selection. The capacity to win the trust of the people at the local level, organizational efficiency and relations with the community will also be evaluated in depth.

The party has made it clear that the selection of candidates would not be based on the influence of any faction or person but on the basis of institutional process, transparent recommendation and democratic competition. Likewise, a goal has been put forward to develop leadership to make the local government result-oriented, link the local leadership with the party’s values and establish a system of continuous improvement.