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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

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 raised by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction 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 not long ago freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.