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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

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

The September revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's older political class. He has in the past served in the positions 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of major political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.