CHITWAN, May 1: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has expressed confidence that the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) would join the government under his leadership. 

At a 'Prime Minister with journalists programme' organized by Press Centre Nepal in Chitwan today, a discussion was being held to include RSP in the government. 

"RSP would not withdraw the support it had lent to the incumbent government. Discussion is being held on its participation in the government", PM Dahal added. 

It was obvious on part of the RSP to demand ministerial portfolios it was given previously, Dahal said, adding they would not stick to the demand. 

The ruling coalition would reach a consensus after discussion, he further noted, clarifying that they have however not reached a position to leave the ministries for RSP. 

"RSP President Rabi Lamichhane has not claimed for definite ministries. The agenda is still under discussion," PM Dahal shared. 

He further mentioned, "The incumbent government would go for five years. It is mere a rumor to state that the government would face trouble". 

Also on the occasion, PM Dahal said Mahabir Pun had staged a sit-in at Maitighar after consultation with him. He had met me at Baluwatar before staging sit-in, the PM said, adding the government was positive to address the demands put forth by Pun. 

"The government is determined to address the demands of Pun through the budget", Dahal said. 

The agenda of providing compensation to former combatants was decided by the government in 2071, he said, adding it was finalized when Bishnu Poudel was the Finance Minister in the government of the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML. 

The distribution was halted at the moment due to a case at the apex court and it is being handed over since the court has issued a verdict allowing the distribution of the amount, PM Dahal clarified.