In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.
"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.
Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement
According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Wider Government Consultations Underway
In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with several major political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.
After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.
