🔗 Share this article

In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes 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 Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread 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 political corruption.

Terms 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 leader of the RSP. In turn, 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 fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's older political class. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of major political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.