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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role 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, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.