🔗 Share this article

In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader 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 well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed 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 central player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.