In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.
A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.
"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.
The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.
Terms of the New Electoral Agreement
According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate 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 established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.
Wider Political Discussions Taking Place
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of major political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.
After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.
