🔗 Share this article

In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political leadership. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.