In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.
A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.
"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The September uprising was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.
Terms of the New Electoral Partnership
According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.
Wider Government Consultations Taking Place
In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.
After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.
