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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in 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 prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.