In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.
A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.
"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.
The September revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary 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 political corruption.
Terms of the New Political Partnership
According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Wider Political Discussions Taking Place
In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.
Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.
