🔗 Share this article

In a notable move 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 demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate 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 discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.