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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions 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 set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several major political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.