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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with a number of leading political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.