🔗 Share this article

In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political class. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.