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In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The September uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation'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 involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.