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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

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

The late summer uprising was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the country's older political class. He has previously 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several 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 uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.