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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, 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 television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released 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 shift. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of major political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.