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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed 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 player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with several major political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.