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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

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

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's older political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released 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 was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.