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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party'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 widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering 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 statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.