In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government.
A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.
"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.
The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.
Details of the Fresh Political Partnership
According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's older political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Broader Political Consultations Underway
In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of major political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.
After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.