🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

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

The September 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 pact, 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 candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving reported 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 was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.