🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Television host 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 younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, 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 fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has in the past held the positions 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 shift. He played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.