In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.
A Pledge to Address Youth Demands
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.
"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.
The late summer revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.
Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership
According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Broader Political Consultations Underway
In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.
Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.
