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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's 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 issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve 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 scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political class. He has previously held the posts 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.