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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

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

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's older 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 alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of major political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.