In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government.
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.
"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.
The September uprising was sparked by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.
According to the official pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.
In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.
After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.
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