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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads 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 promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years 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 imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past served in 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of major political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.