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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment follows 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 nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to alleged 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 transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.