🔗 Share this article

In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official 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 nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.