KATHMANDU: The race for the General Secretary position of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has shifted dramatically, positioning current Joint General Secretary Bipin Acharya as the definitive frontrunner.

In a rapid sequence of political maneuvering culminating in a Friday morning press conference, several prominent party figures announced they were stepping down to throw their weight behind Acharya.

Among those withdrawing are key establishment figures and close confidants of Party Chairman Rabi Lamichhane, including Pramod Neupane, Ganesh Parajuli, and former General Secretary Kabindra Burlakoti.

Their exits follow the earlier withdrawals of Jagadish Kharel and leader Shisir Khanal, creating a powerful wave of institutional support that makes Acharya’s election look nearly certain.

To secure the seat, Acharya will have to fend off challenges from a remaining roster of competitive party voices, including Manish Jha, Ranju Darshana, Ganesh Karki and Sagar Dhakal.