🔗 Share this article

In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the sitting 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 major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.