In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Address 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 focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.
"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The late summer uprising was sparked by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.
Terms of the New Electoral Agreement
According to the formal agreement, the roles 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 position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving alleged 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 setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Wider Government Discussions Taking Place
In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.
Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.
