In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.
"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.
The September uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.
Terms of the New Electoral Agreement
According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent 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 set for 5 March.
- Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released 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 key figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.
Broader Political Consultations Taking Place
In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with several leading political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.
After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.
