RPP PR candidate Budhathoki unveils manifesto centered on ‘Economic Reform 3.0’ and inclusive agenda

KATHMANDU: Proportional representation candidate of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, Gajendra Singh Budhathoki, has publicly unveiled his personal election manifesto ahead of the House of Representatives election scheduled for Falgun 21, outlining an agenda focused on economic restructuring, social inclusion, and institutional accountability.

Budhathoki, a veteran economic journalist with more than three decades of professional experience and long involvement in disability rights and social transformation campaigns, said his candidacy is driven by the need to push policy reform from within the legislature.

Legislature Must Lead Reform

In his declaration, Budhathoki invoked the theory of separation of powers proposed by French philosopher Montesquieu, arguing that Nepal’s prolonged political instability and weak coordination among state institutions have hindered development and governance effectiveness.

He described the legislature as the most decisive state organ for policy direction, stating that his parliamentary agenda prioritizes equitable economic development, disability inclusion, and the promotion of a responsible and culturally rooted media industry.

Economic Reform 3.0 as Core Political Agenda

Budhathoki said he is aligning his campaign with the RPP’s policy commitments and reform roadmap, highlighting the party’s proposal to advance a new phase of structural reform branded as “Economic Reform 3.0.”

He linked this concept to the liberalization reforms initiated in the 1980s by economist and former finance minister Prakash Chandra Lohani, noting that Nepal now requires a new generation of reforms to boost private investment, productivity, and industrial expansion.

The candidate also stressed that fiscal discipline, efficient budgeting, support for micro, small, and medium enterprises, and policies benefiting farmers, landless citizens, and the lower middle class will form his legislative priorities if elected.

Journalism, Politics, and Institutional Accountability

Calling journalism the “fourth pillar of the state,” Budhathoki said his 31-year career in the media sector has consistently focused on holding all branches of government accountable.

He also addressed concerns about his continued association with Taksar Magazine, clarifying that his political involvement would not affect the publication’s editorial independence. He noted that the magazine has played an active role in shaping debates on economic policy and national development.

Party Vision: Culture, Energy, and Structural Reform

Budhathoki reiterated that the RPP’s broader vision combines economic restructuring with the protection of religion, culture, and traditional values.

He pointed to the party’s ambitious energy strategy, which targets the production of 28,500 MW of electricity within the next decade under what it calls an “Energy Production Decade,” arguing that energy expansion must be central to Nepal’s development strategy.

Inclusion and Representation Pledge

Budhathoki pledged to raise issues related to Nepal’s macroeconomic direction, budget governance, private sector development, and small-scale entrepreneurship in Parliament. He also emphasized that he intends to serve as a strong voice for persons with disabilities, minorities, marginalized communities, and economically vulnerable groups.

He has appealed to voters to support the RPP’s election symbol “plough,” saying public backing would grant him the moral and constitutional mandate to represent these issues in the legislature.