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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle 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 pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread anger 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 longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with several major political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.