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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The September uprising was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader 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 established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to 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 ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several major political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.