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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching 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 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, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of leading political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.