🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal 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 former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several major political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.