In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Demands
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 issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.
"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.
The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.
Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership
According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching 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 role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Wider Government Consultations Underway
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with several leading political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.
After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.
