🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth 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 raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role 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, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country'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 alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of leading political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.