In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.
"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.
Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership
According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain 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 founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past held 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.
Broader Government Consultations Taking Place
In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.
After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.
