🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following 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 spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling 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 released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.