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

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.