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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled 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 leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving 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 forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.