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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests 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 country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, 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 candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.