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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

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

The September uprising was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's older political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

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