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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address 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 publicly vowed to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to alleged 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 setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.