🔗 Share this article

In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

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 issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with a number of major political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.