🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked 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 leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

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

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the official agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set 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 leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to alleged 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 transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of major political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.