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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement 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 underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Political Partnership

According to the official agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with several leading political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.