In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Address Youth Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.
"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was signed.
The late summer uprising was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.
Terms of the New Political Partnership
According to the official agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed 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 shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.
Wider Political Consultations Underway
In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.
Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.
