In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.
"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.
Terms of the New Electoral Partnership
According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee 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, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.
Wider Political Consultations Taking Place
In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.
Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.
