Dol Prasad Aryal, a senior leader of Nepal’s Rastriya Swatantra Party, has officially assumed office as the Speaker of the House of Representatives after being sworn in by President Ramchandra Paudel at Shital Niwas in Kathmandu. His elevation to the post was formalised in Parliament earlier the same day, following his unopposed election as the sole candidate, backed by his party’s strong numerical position. He is now set to preside over the next session of the House scheduled for Monday afternoon, marking the beginning of his tenure in one of Nepal’s most important constitutional roles.
Aryal’s rise to this position reflects a long and unconventional journey shaped by struggle and persistence. Born in Dhading district in 1974, he moved to Kathmandu in the early 1990s in search of better opportunities. His early years in the capital were marked by hardship, as he took up low-paying jobs in restaurants, performing basic tasks to sustain himself. Over time, he transitioned into working as a tourist guide, gradually improving his circumstances and gaining exposure to new experiences.
His career later took him abroad, where he spent nearly eight years in Japan. This phase played a significant role in shaping his professional outlook and provided him with the resources and confidence to return to Nepal and venture into business. Upon his return, Aryal invested in sectors such as tourism, education, and remittance services, eventually rising to become the chief executive of a remittance company. Alongside his business activities, he remained engaged in social initiatives, contributing to healthcare infrastructure and participating in relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aryal entered active politics in 2022 as a founding member of the Rastriya Swatantra Party and quickly emerged as a key figure within the organisation. Known for his composed and balanced approach, he became a close associate of party leader Rabi Lamichhane and even served as acting president during a period of internal challenges. He was elected to Parliament from Kathmandu constituency-9 and held the position of Minister for Labour and Employment during his political career.
His appointment as Speaker marks a significant milestone, placing him in a role that is central to the functioning of Nepal’s parliamentary democracy. As Speaker, he is expected to oversee legislative proceedings, ensure order within the House, and uphold constitutional principles, making his leadership crucial in shaping parliamentary discourse in the coming period.
