🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal 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 position 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 broad discontent with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.