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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads 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 comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader 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 popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.