🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise 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 signed.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.