KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ evening briefing, bringing you the day’s most important developments from Nepal and across the globe. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we deliver a concise roundup of the top news you need to know.

First General Convention of RSP Kicks Off in Chitwan

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) officially commenced its three-day first general convention today in Bharatpur, Chitwan, marking its transition into a formalized, legal organization. Hosted by General Secretary Kabindra Burlakoti, the inauguration saw a massive turnout of delegates and high-profile attendees, including party Chairman Rabi Lamichhane and Prime Minister Balendra Shah. Less than four years after its founding, the RSP commands a near two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives and leads a majority government on its own; however, it faces the critical challenge of unifying a scattered membership and defining its ambiguous political ideology regarding federalism, secularism, and inclusiveness.

RSP’s First General Convention to Shape Its Identity and Future Direction

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which currently holds a near two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives and leads a majority government less than four years after its founding by Rabi Lamichhane, has commenced its historic first general convention in Chitwan from June 21 to 23, 2026. The landmark event aims to transition the party into a formalized, legal organization and address long-standing ambiguities surrounding its political ideology and stance on federalism, secularism, and inclusiveness. Key agenda items include adopting constitutional socialism, amending the party constitution to officially incorporate the word “republic,” expanding the central committee to 158 members to better accommodate diverse political factions, and utilizing electronic voting.

PM Shah Uses ‘Expressway’ Analogy to Defend Government’s Pace

Speaking informally at the Rastriya Swatantra Party’s (RSP) first general convention, Prime Minister and RSP Senior Leader Balendra (Balen) Shah playfully began his address with, “I think about not speaking, but the day to speak arrives anyway.” Addressing critics who warned that a government requires “brakes alongside an accelerator,” Shah countered that such concerns only apply to driving on local roads. Asserting that his administration is not a local vehicle but an “expressway” train, he emphasized that the government is fully controlled but will not slow down until its national goals are successfully achieved.

The Nation is Safe in RSP’s Hands, Past Movements Will Not Be Disregarded, Says Rabi Lamichhane

Addressing the opening session of the Rastriya Swatantra Party’s (RSP) first general convention in Chitwan, Party Chairman Rabi Lamichhane confidently asserted that the nation is secure under their leadership while extending an olive branch to traditional political forces. “The nation is in RSP’s hands, and the nation is safe,” Lamichhane told the gathered delegates and guest politicians. He noted that changing political circumstances have elevated the RSP into the country’s most powerful political force.

Baburam Bhattarai Calls RSP the Biggest Achievement of Nepal’s Alternative Politics Movement

Former Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai said he regards the Rastriya Swatantra Party as the most significant achievement of the alternative political movement he has championed for more than a decade. Addressing the party’s first general convention, Bhattarai said he sees RSP as the strongest manifestation of the political vision he had advocated through the “Naya Shakti” campaign. “For the past 11 years, I have promoted alternative politics through the Naya Shakti movement. Today, I consider RSP to be the most important achievement of that campaign,” he said.

Gagan Thapa Praises RSP’s Impressive Public Support Within Four Years

Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa praised the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) for gathering an impressive level of public support within just four years of its formation. Extending his wishes at the RSP’s first general convention, Thapa openly lauded the party’s widespread popularity, describing it as highly enviable. He noted that the mandate received by RSP is extraordinary, while also cautioning that political parties have historically achieved such massive support only three or four times, and most of those instances ultimately ended in political mishaps.

RSP Aims to Build a New Political Culture: Swarnim Wagle

At the Rastriya Swatantra Party’s (RSP) first general convention on Sunday, Finance Minister and outgoing Party Vice-Chairman Swarnim Wagle stated that the party’s goal is to establish a new political culture and ensure Nepal’s progress rather than simply defeat older generations. Emphasizing that RSP represents hope, solutions, and construction rather than just anger, criticism, and rebellion, Wagle advocated for a competitive economy driven by meritocracy and entrepreneurship instead of crony capitalism. He envisioned a capable state that serves its citizens, retains its youth by offering local opportunities, and fosters a secure environment for workers and investors alike.

Rajendra Lingden Says Some Voters Backed Party Believing Balen Would Restore Monarchy

Chairman of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, Rajendra Lingden, claimed that many voters who support the restoration of the monarchy also cast their ballots for the Rastriya Swatantra Party, believing that Prime Minister Balen Shah would bring back the king. Addressing the first general convention of the RSP in Chitwan on Saturday, Lingden said the party carries a unique responsibility because it received support from people far beyond conventional party lines. He urged the party to work toward addressing public frustration and fulfilling the expectations that propelled it to power.

CK Raut Praises Rabi Lamichhane and Balen Shah at RSP Convention

Chairman of the Janamat Party, CK Raut, showered praise on RSP Chairman Rabi Lamichhane and Prime Minister Balen Shah while addressing the party’s first general convention. Raut said the two leaders had turned into reality the vision of an alternative political force that many had long imagined. Congratulating the party on becoming the country’s largest political force, he said he had travelled to Chitwan to personally extend his best wishes. He also advised the party to place public trust at the center of its decision-making and governance. During his remarks, Raut described Lamichhane as the most courageous and outstanding political leader to emerge since B. P. Koirala.

RSP Bans Candidate Name Slips During Voting at First General Convention

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has decided that no one will be allowed to carry slips with candidates’ names at its first general convention. A rule has been introduced prohibiting participants from carrying any paper or slip containing a candidate’s name while taking part in the voting process. According to leaders of the party’s disciplinary commission, if anyone is found carrying such slips while voting, their candidacy will be cancelled.

Three Drown to Death in Surkhet

Three people lost their lives after drowning in Surkhet on Saturday. According to the District Police Office in Surkhet, 14-year-old Samjhana Thapa and 12-year-old Kalpana Rawat from Birendranagar Municipality-10 drowned on Saturday evening while swimming in the Tuni River. Similarly, 18-year-old Ramesh Pun from Gurans Rural Municipality in Dailekh also drowned on Saturday in the Dahatal (Daha lake/pond).

Four Killed, 111 Injured in Road Accidents Across Nepal in 24 Hours

Four people died and 111 others were injured in road accidents reported across Nepal within the last 24 hours, according to official data of Nepal Police. Koshi Province recorded the highest number of casualties, with two deaths and 66 injuries. Bagmati and Sudurpashchim provinces reported one death each, while Kathmandu Valley recorded nine injuries without any fatalities. Madhesh Province saw the highest number of injuries after Koshi, with 21 people injured. Lumbini and Karnali reported five and four injuries respectively, while Gandaki recorded no deaths or injuries.

4.1 Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Humla

A mild earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale struck Humla district on Sunday afternoon. According to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Center, the tremor was recorded at 2:32 pm, with its epicenter located around the Srinagar area. Authorities have not received any immediate reports of casualties or property damage. The tremor was felt in nearby settlements, though detailed information from remote parts of the district is still being collected. Nepal lies in a highly seismic zone, and minor to moderate earthquakes are frequently recorded due to ongoing tectonic activity in the Himalayan region.

Nepal Marks International Yoga Day with Awareness Programs

International Yoga Day was celebrated across Nepal on Sunday under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Aging,” with mass yoga sessions, lectures, and awareness programs organized by the Main Organizing Committee under the Ministry of Education and Sports. Speaking at the main event held at Dasharath Stadium, Chief Secretary Suman Raj Aryal said the government has institutionalized the celebration of Yoga, Meditation, and Wellness Day and has incorporated yoga-related education into school curricula. He stressed the need to expand public participation so more people can benefit from the practice. Ministry Secretary Chudamani Paudel highlighted the role of yoga in maintaining physical and mental health, saying regular practice can help prevent diseases and contribute to a healthier society.

Dayahang Rai, Thinle Lhamo Named Best Actors at Critics Film Awards

Actor Dayahang Rai and actress Thinle Lhamo have been declared the best actor and best actress respectively at the Critics Film Awards organized by the Film Critics Society (Fiction) on Saturday. At a programme in Kathmandu, the society distributed awards for films from 2024 and 2025 in a single event. The awards were presented by figures including the MaHa duo (Madan Krishna Shrestha and Hari Bansha Acharya) and novelist Nabin Subba.

Film “Teen Tighre Kya Bigre” Officially Announced

The film Teen Tighre Kya Bigre, produced under the banner of Raghuj Films, has been officially announced. The announcement was made on Sunday with a script puja at the Surya Binayak Ganesh Temple. Written and directed by Amar Deep Sapkota, the film is set to begin shooting in the last week of Asar. Singer Pashupati Sharma and singer Anju Panta’s daughter, Paritoshika Panta, will play lead roles, both marking their debut. The director said the comedy film will be presented as a full entertainment package.

Dayahang Rai and Miruna Magar Reunite in “Rato Ghera”

Actors Dayahang Rai and Miruna Magar will be seen together again in the film Rato Ghera. Following the success of Jaari, the popular on-screen pair will reunite in this new project produced by Bishram Films Pvt. Ltd., directed by Anil Buda Magar. The film will focus on social and emotional themes, aiming to deliver both entertainment and a strong message. The production team has emphasized a high-quality technical and narrative approach with an experienced cast and crew.

Top 20 Contestants Announced for Miss Nepal North America 2026

Dreams Universal LLC has announced the top 20 contestants for Miss Nepal North America 2026. The ninth edition of the pageant, which promotes Nepali women, culture, leadership, and achievements in North America, will be held in Washington DC for the first time. Previously held in New York, the event has been moved to Washington DC to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, aiming to highlight the growing presence and contributions of the Nepali community in American society.

Syangja, Tanahun Win Provincial Hockey Titles

The provincial-level men’s and women’s hockey tournament organized by the Tanahun Hockey Association concluded at Belchautara, Shuklagandaki Municipality-5, on Saturday. Syangja emerged as the men’s champion, while host district Tanahun secured the women’s title. The winning teams received Rs. 7,000 each, while the runners-up were awarded Rs. 5,000. Teams from Tanahun, Kaski, Syangja, and Parbat participated in the tournament.

Rupesh Jaiswal and Kritisara Acharya Win National Chess Titles

Rupesh Jaiswal and Kritisara Acharya have won the titles of the 26th Open and 11th Women’s National Chess Championship respectively. Organised under the aegis of the Nepal Chess Federation, and locally hosted by the Koshi Province Sports Development Board and the Jhapa District Chess Association, the tournament concluded on Friday after 11 rounds of competition. In the final standings, Jaiswal secured the men’s title with 9.5 points, while Acharya became the women’s champion with 8.5 points. Following the competition, a total of 10 players—both men and women—have been selected for the upcoming 46th Chess Olympiad, scheduled to be held in September in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Deniz Undav Stars as Germany Beat Ivory Coast 2-1 to Reach Knockout Stage

Deniz Undav scored a sensational brace off the bench as Germany staged a dramatic comeback to beat Ivory Coast 2-1 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match on Saturday (local time), sealing a knockout-stage spot for the first time since their 2014 title-winning campaign. Germany had the ball in the net before the first hydration break, but the goal was disallowed for a foul on Ivory Coast goalkeeper Yahia Fofana. Ivory Coast then took the lead in the 30th minute through captain Franck Kessie, who finished past Manuel Neuer. Germany equalised in the 64th minute through substitute Undav, who struck again in the 94th minute to complete the comeback and secure all three points.

Brobbey, Gakpo Score Braces as Netherlands Rout Sweden 5-1

Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo scored two goals each as the Netherlands defeated Sweden 5-1 to secure their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Brobbey scored twice inside 17 minutes in Houston, including an early opener set up by Gakpo and a second from a Denzel Dumfries cross, marking the fourth-fastest World Cup brace in history. Gakpo added a quick double after the break—first from another Dumfries assist and then with a reverse finish. Sweden’s Anthony Elanga pulled one back in the 59th minute, but substitute Crysencio Summerville sealed the win with a late goal in the 89th minute.

Israeli Strikes Kills Dozens in Lebanon Despite Ceasefire

Israeli air and drone strikes in southern Lebanon have killed dozens of people even as a ceasefire remains in place. The renewed ceasefire, which took effect on Friday, has not halted the attacks, raising concerns over escalating tensions on the ground. The violence is casting a shadow over planned diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Iran, who are expected to continue discussions on a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed this week. Iran has said the ceasefire in Lebanon is crucial to the diplomatic process and warned it could “make or break” the ongoing US–Iran talks.

Trump Says No Tolls in Strait of Hormuz Unless Imposed by US

United States President Donald Trump has said there will be no tolls for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, unless they are imposed by the United States itself. In a post on Truth Social on Saturday afternoon, Trump said, “There will be NO TOLLS in the Hormuz Strait for 60 days during the Cease Fire Period, and there will be NO TOLLS after the 60 day period has expired, unless they are imposed by and for the United States of America.” The statement comes amid signs that a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) may be under strain.

Israeli Strikes Kill Six in Gaza, Including Al Jazeera Cameraman

At least six people, including an Al Jazeera cameraman and at least one child, have been killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza, according to health officials and rescuers. Al Jazeera condemned what it called the “heinous crime” of targeting and killing its correspondent Ahmed Wishah, who was killed in a strike on a central Gaza home on Saturday. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Wishah was “a terrorist in Hamas’ military wing who served as a sniper operative.” Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the UN, says 1,007 people have been killed since a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into effect last October.

France Restricts Alcohol at Events as Heatwave Pushes Temperatures to 41C

France has banned alcohol at some public events during its annual Fête de la Musique festival as a severe heatwave pushes temperatures close to record levels.  The celebrations, which draw millions into the streets each year, are taking place under extreme heat warnings affecting 35 departments. Authorities have imposed restrictions under red alerts, including bans on alcohol consumption in public places. Temperatures on Sunday are expected to reach 39–40C across regions stretching from the southwest through Paris into Burgundy, with some areas potentially hitting 41C.