In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.
A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.
"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.
The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.
Terms of the New Electoral Agreement
According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to 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 played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.
Wider Government Discussions Taking Place
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.
Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.
