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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

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 position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several leading political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.