Balen and Rabi Locked in ‘Decisive’ Unity Talks

In a move reflecting the high tension and public expectation surrounding the formation of a new political alliance, a Gen-Z activist reportedly “locked” the gates of a meeting venue where Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah and RSP Chairman Rabi Lamichhane were holding talks, vowing not to let them out until a formal agreement is reached.

The meeting, described by insiders as “decisive,” took place on Thursday at the residence of Kumar Ben, an aide to Mayor Shah, in Kupondole, Lalitpur.

The “Gate Lock” Protest

As the two leaders discussed a potential partnership, Sudan Gurung, a prominent Gen-Z activist present at the site, released a video message on social media claiming he had locked the main entrance.

“Our two leaders are inside. This gate will not be opened until they agree to work together,” Gurung stated in the video. When asked by onlookers who exactly was inside, he clarified, “Our Mayor Saab and Rabi Lamichhane. We are staying here as guards. If they unite, they come out; otherwise, they stay.”

Vision for a ‘Desh Bikash Party’

The meeting with Lamichhane follows a series of marathon discussions held by Mayor Shah since Wednesday. Earlier, Shah met with Rakshya Bam, a leader of the Gen-Z Front, to discuss the theoretical foundations of a new political force.

According to Bam, the Mayor proposed a collaboration under the banner of a “Desh Bikash Party” (Country Development Party). The talks focused on “honesty and selfless service” as the common ground for a new alternative power. Shah reportedly urged Bam and her contemporaries to play a central role in unifying the youth vote.

“We need leadership that works without self-interest. Honesty is our shared foundation,” Bam told reporters following her meeting.

Broadening the Circle

The Kupondole residence has become a hub of intense political maneuvering over the last 24 hours. In addition to Lamichhane and Bam, other notable figures were spotted joining the dialogue:

• Dr. Sunil Sharma: The Nepali Congress leader met with Shah to discuss the possibility of restoring Parliament and broader political stability.
• Sagar Dhakal: The independent youth leader was also reportedly part of the wider discussions aimed at consolidating “alternative” political forces.

A Turning Point for Alternative Politics?

Observers suggest that Balen Shah is actively laying the groundwork for his own political party, seeking to bridge the gap between his independent movement, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and various youth fronts.

While the “locking” of the gate by activists may be symbolic, it underscores the immense pressure on Shah and Lamichhane to move past previous differences and form a united front before the next election cycle.