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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction 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 involving reported 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 shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several major political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.