🔗 Share this article

In a significant 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 rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The September uprising was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader 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, capturing broad 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 central figure in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.