🔗 Share this article

In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Political Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed 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 current political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.