🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The late summer uprising was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance'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 posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed 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 player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.