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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled 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 nation'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 related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of major political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.