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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

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

The September revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the official agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain 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 popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the country's established political class. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with a number of major political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.