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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has previously served in the posts 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 central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.