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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle 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 pledged to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's older political class. 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 related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several leading political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.