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In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

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

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, 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 TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to alleged 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 transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several major political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.