🔗 Share this article

In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, 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 nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in 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 central figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.