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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest 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 after the deal was signed.

The September uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread 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 released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.