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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee 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, capturing broad discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.