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In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's 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 grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The September uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.