🔗 Share this article

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

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve 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 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.