🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure 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 promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, 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 candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.