KATHMANDU: The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has clarified its role in the recent Gen Z protests, emphasizing that it participated in peaceful demonstrations on September 8 but was not involved in the vandalism and arson that occurred on September 9.

Speaking to journalists at the party office in Banasthali on Tuesday, RSP spokesperson Manish Jha said that party leaders had been unfairly linked to violent incidents following the protest.

“Our leaders and cadres actively took part in the September 8 protest, but we had no role in the violence and arson the next day,” Jha said.

Jha added that he had visited Nakkhu Jail on the day of the protest after receiving reports of potential arson but denied leading or participating in any aggressive actions.

He noted that the party took responsibility for ensuring the security of party president Rabi Lamichhane only after receiving a formal request from prison authorities.

Commenting on recent resignations, including that of Sumana Shrestha, Jha said the RSP respects the contributions of departing members and will conduct an internal review to strengthen the party moving forward.

The party also expressed its willingness to cooperate fully with the government’s investigation into the incidents surrounding the Gen Z demonstrations.