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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

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 underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party'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, capturing broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central 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 Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.