In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Address Youth Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.
"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.
The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.
Terms of the New Electoral Partnership
According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently 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 seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.
Broader Government Consultations Underway
In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.
Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.
