🔗 Share this article

In a notable move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger 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 what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the country's established political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

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

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.