In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.
A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.
"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.
The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.
Details of the New Political Agreement
According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country'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 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 ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.
Wider Political Consultations Underway
In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several major political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.
Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.
