🔗 Share this article

In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The September revolt 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 years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. 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 related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.