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In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The September uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent 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 popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad 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 not long ago freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.