In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.
A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.
"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.
The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.
Terms of the New Political Agreement
According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.
Broader Political Consultations Underway
In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with several major political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.
Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.
