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In a notable move 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 young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, 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 position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Underway

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.