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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

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

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's older political class. He has in the past held 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 transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with several leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.