In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.
A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.
"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.
Terms of the New Political Agreement
According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.
Wider Government Discussions 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.
After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.
