In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.
"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The September revolt was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.
Details of the New Political Partnership
According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously served in the positions 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Broader Political Consultations Underway
In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.
Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.
