🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.