🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

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

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain 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 well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling 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 recently released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.