In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, 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 shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.
"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.
Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership
According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, 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 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation'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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Broader Government Consultations Taking Place
In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.
After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.
