🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's 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 issues raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed 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 central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with a number of major political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.