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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge 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 officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson 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 established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past held 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 seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of major political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.