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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures 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 sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

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 party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. 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 alleged 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 transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.