In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.
A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands
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 highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.
"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.
The September uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.
Terms of the New Political Partnership
According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.
Wider Political Consultations Taking Place
In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.
After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting 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 electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.
