🔗 Share this article

In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several major political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.