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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The September uprising was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve 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 scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving alleged 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 played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.