🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching 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 scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.