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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Media figure 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 commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role 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 broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.