🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster 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 vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.