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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles 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 candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.