🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.