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In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands

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 highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance'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, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.