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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving 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 current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.