In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.
A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.
"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.
The late summer uprising was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.
Terms of the New Political Agreement
According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, 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 widespread discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has previously held the posts 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Wider Government Discussions Taking Place
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.
After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.
