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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The September revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. 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 played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.