In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges 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 incumbent government.
A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads 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 comes after the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.
"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.
The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.
Terms of the New Electoral Agreement
According to the official agreement, the roles for the imminent 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 role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's established political class. He has previously held the posts 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Wider Political Consultations Underway
In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several major political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.
After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.
