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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent 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 released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several major political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

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