🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released 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 figure in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.