🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

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

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released 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 figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.