In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.
"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.
The September revolt was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.
Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement
According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's established political class. He has previously held the posts 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 seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Wider Political Consultations Taking Place
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of major political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.
Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.
