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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released 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 player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message 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.