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

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

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 new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the official agreement, 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 alliance's nominee 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, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to alleged 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 ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several major political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.