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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address 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 focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

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

The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political class. He has in the past 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 central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with a number of major political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial 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 shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.