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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles 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 nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past held the positions 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 viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.