🔗 Share this article

In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad 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 not long ago freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial 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 duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.