In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.
A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.
"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The late summer revolt was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.
Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement
According to the official agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction 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 alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.
Wider Political Consultations Taking Place
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with a number of major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.
After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.
