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In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political class. 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 alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.