In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.
A Commitment to Address Youth Demands
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads 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 commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.
"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.
The late summer uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.
Terms of the New Electoral Agreement
According to the official pact, the roles 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 party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released 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 key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.
Wider Government Consultations Underway
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.
Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.
