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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

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

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's established political class. He has previously held the positions 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 figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.