🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.

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

The September uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, 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 fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has previously served in 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.