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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Television host 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 issues raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.