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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with several major political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.