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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.