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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of major political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.