In a significant political realignment ahead of crucial elections, Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah, widely known as Balen, has been declared the prime ministerial candidate for the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). The announcement came on Sunday after intense overnight negotiations culminated in a seven-point agreement between Shah and the RSP to jointly contest the upcoming Nepal elections scheduled for March 5.
A Youth-Centric Political Alliance Takes Shape
The newly forged pact designates the 35-year-old mayor as the parliamentary party leader and the face for the prime minister's post. Meanwhile, Rabi Lamichhane will continue in his role as the chairperson of the RSP, which is currently the fourth-largest party in the dissolved House of Representatives. As per the terms of the agreement, Balen Shah and his political group will contest the elections under the RSP's election symbol, the 'Bell', which is officially allotted by the Election Commission of Nepal.
With this merger, the RSP's name, flag, and election symbol will remain unchanged. Following the signing ceremony, Rabi Lamichhane emphasized in a Facebook post that the consensus should mirror the nation's needs rather than the personal ambitions of individual leaders.
Owning the Gen Z Movement Against Corruption
The core of the agreement highlights a shared commitment to the youth-led movement that shook Nepal's political landscape. The document states that both sides have taken "ownership of the movement launched by the younger generation against corruption and bad governance". It further expresses a firm dedication to addressing the demands raised by Gen Z protesters, including providing for those who were injured during the demonstrations.
Political observers view this alliance as a pivotal step towards consolidating the emerging, youth-driven political forces that were at the forefront of the September movement. That widespread public agitation was instrumental in the fall of the government led by KP Sharma Oli. The pact is expected to attract a large number of Gen Z supporters to the RSP's fold.
Broader Unity Talks and Attendees
The move towards a united youth front may not stop here. Another newly formed political entity, the Ujyalo Nepal Party (UNP) led by Energy and Water Resources Minister Kulman Ghising, has also been in discussions with Balen Shah regarding collaboration and unity. However, the UNP has not yet announced a final decision on joining this alliance.
The signing ceremony was attended by key figures from both sides. Senior RSP leaders present included Dr. Swarnim Wagle, DP Aryal, and Shishir Khanal, along with Asim Shah representing Lamichhane's camp. Balen Shah's team was represented by Kumar Byanjankar, Nishchal Basnet, and Bhoop Dev Shah.
This strategic partnership sets the stage for a dynamic contest in the March elections, positioning the fight against corruption and the aspirations of the younger generation at the centre of its campaign.
