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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment 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 publicly pledged to prioritize the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's older political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed 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 key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.