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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

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

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee 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 established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed 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 figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.