🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to 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 one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions 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 candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. He has in the past 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 key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.