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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September uprising was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted 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 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 founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent 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 involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.