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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

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

The late summer uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve 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 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.