In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.
A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.
"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.
The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding 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 leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has previously 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.
Broader Political Consultations Taking Place
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with a number of major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.
After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.
