In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance 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 ouster of the sitting 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 vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.
"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.
The September revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.
Terms of the New Political Partnership
According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
- Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.
Broader Political Consultations Taking Place
In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period 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 responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.
