🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. 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 popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. He has previously served in the positions 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 player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several leading political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.