🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

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

The September uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson 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 well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed 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 player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several major political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.