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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

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

The September uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles 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 candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's established political class. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.