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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Details 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. 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 fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several major political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.