Nepal 2026 snap polls: New 'Trio' alliance challenges political establishment
Explore the impact of the new political alliance between Balen Shah, Rabi Lamichhane, and Kul Man Ghising ahead of the Nepal 2026 snap polls.
A rapper-mayor, a firebrand TV host, and a technocrat have joined forces to disrupt Nepal's long-standing political order. As the country braces for the March 2026 snap polls, this unprecedented alliance of alternative forces is tapping into deep-seated public frustration following the youth-led uprisings of late 2025.
Nepal 2026 snap polls: The rise of the alternative alliance
The coalition brings together the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), led by Rabi Lamichhane; Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah(known as 'Balen'); and Kul Man Ghising, the interim energy minister. According to their seven-point deal, Balen Shah will be the alliance's candidate for Prime Minister, marking a significant shift from his role as an independent outsider to a potential national leader.
Traditional giants like the Nepali Congress(NC) and the CPN-UML are reportedly rattled. For decades, these parties have practiced a 'cartel' style of governance, alternating power while sharing state resources. The new alliance promises a generational break from this patronage-driven culture, resonating strongly with urban Gen Z voters who feel excluded from the political process.
Fragile foundations and old habits
Despite the enthusiasm, the alliance faces early credibility tests. Critics point out that the recent Proportional Representation (PR) candidate list looks suspiciously familiar, featuring relatives of powerful figures and celebrities—the very 'elite accommodation' they vowed to end. Furthermore, the seven-point agreement is light on policy substance, focusing more on power distribution than economic or institutional reform.
Legal baggage also haunts the leaders. Lamichhane was recently released on bail after nine months in custody for fraud, while Ghising has faced scrutiny over past power purchase agreements. With rural constituencies—accounting for 60% of the electorate—still largely under the influence of traditional parties, the alliance's path to a majority remains uncertain.
This content is AI-generated based on source articles. While we strive for accuracy, errors may occur. We recommend verifying with the original source.
Related Articles
Fed Chair Jerome Powell is set to attend the Supreme Court argument for Lisa Cook's firing case, marking a historic confrontation with President Trump over Fed independence.
Norway's Prime Minister claims Donald Trump cited his Nobel Prize loss as a reason for not pursuing a peaceful resolution on Greenland. Analysis of the Trump Greenland Nobel Prize 2026 reports.
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev resigned on January 19, 2026, signaling a major move to form a new party ahead of the country's 8th election in four years.
Coupang's 33 million account data leak is causing diplomatic tension between Seoul and Washington in 2026. Civic groups warn against political lobbying.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell is set to attend the Supreme Court argument for Lisa Cook's firing case, marking a historic confrontation with President Trump over Fed independence.
Norway's Prime Minister claims Donald Trump cited his Nobel Prize loss as a reason for not pursuing a peaceful resolution on Greenland. Analysis of the Trump Greenland Nobel Prize 2026 reports.
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev resigned on January 19, 2026, signaling a major move to form a new party ahead of the country's 8th election in four years.
Coupang's 33 million account data leak is causing diplomatic tension between Seoul and Washington in 2026. Civic groups warn against political lobbying.