🔗 Share this article

In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

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

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the roles 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 alliance'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 founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously held 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 player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of major political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.