🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle 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 officially pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The September revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established 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 involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.