In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.
A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads 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 promise comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.
"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.
The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.
Details of the New Electoral Agreement
According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching 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 founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.
Broader Political Discussions Taking Place
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first 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 duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.
