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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale 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 Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, 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 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed 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 key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with a number of major political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.