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In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle 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 grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role 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 widespread discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with a number of major political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.