🔗 Share this article

In a notable move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past 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 player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.