In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.
A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands
Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.
"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.
The late summer uprising was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.
Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership
According to the official pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain 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 popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread 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 recently released on bail in a case involving 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 current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.
Wider Political Discussions Underway
In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several major political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.
Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.
