From Record-Breaking Broadcaster to Polarizing Politician: The Tumultuous Career of Rabi Lamichhane
In short: Rabi Lamichhane transitioned from a television personality who once held the world record for the longest live talk show to a central figure in Nepali politics. His rapid rise as chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party has been marked by significant electoral success, legal battles, and accusations of financial misconduct.
Lamichhane first gained national prominence in April 2013 by hosting a marathon broadcast on News24 that lasted over 62 hours. This feat, centered on the theme of Nepal's cultural heritage, required him to interview more than 100 guests while adhering to strict rules that allowed only brief hourly breaks. His media career continued with high-profile programs until he entered the political arena in 2022.
His political trajectory has been defined by both landslide victories and severe legal challenges. After founding the Rastriya Swatantra Party, he secured a seat in the House of Representatives and twice served as a senior government official overseeing home affairs. However, his tenure was interrupted in January 2023 when the Supreme Court of Nepal ruled he had failed to properly reacquire Nepali citizenship after renouncing his American status, leading to the loss of his parliamentary and ministerial roles. He successfully regained his seat in a by-election shortly thereafter.
The latter part of his career has been dominated by allegations of embezzlement involving savings and credit cooperatives. Since early 2025, Lamichhane has faced multiple arrests and detention periods related to claims that funds were transferred to a media company he previously managed. While he maintains his innocence, the ongoing legal proceedings—including investigations into organized crime and money laundering—have cast a shadow over his political influence. Despite these controversies, he achieved a third consecutive electoral victory in 2026, highlighting the deep polarization surrounding his public life.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Rabi Lamichhane
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