Dol Prasad Aryal, Vice President of Nepal’s ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has been elected unopposed as the Speaker of the House of Representatives. He was sworn in on April 5, 2026, by President Ramchandra Paudel at Shital Niwas in Kathmandu.
Aryal’s nomination was proposed by RSP Chair Rabi Lamichhane and seconded by MPs Sobita Gautam, Dr. Swarnim Wagle, and Sunil Lamsal. His election marks a historic shift as he becomes the first non-communist Speaker in nearly two decades, reflecting the growing influence of the RSP in Nepal’s political landscape.
As the 10th Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aryal will preside over parliamentary sessions beginning April 6, 2026. His leadership is expected to align closely with the RSP’s reformist agenda, strengthening the party’s grip on governance and legislative proceedings.
The election underscores the decline of communist dominance in Nepal’s Parliament, with the RSP consolidating power across key institutions. Aryal’s background in labor, tourism, and business is likely to shape his priorities as Speaker, focusing on economic reforms and institutional efficiency.
Observers note that Aryal’s rise signals a broader political shift in Nepal, where newer parties are challenging entrenched ideologies. The development carries regional resonance, highlighting evolving democratic trends across South Asia.
