🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led protests that rocked 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 leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching 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 nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.