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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The September uprising was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson 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 well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's older political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.