🔗 Share this article

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

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

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 new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching 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 set 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 held 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over 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 talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.