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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The September uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with a number of major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.