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In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth 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 focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September uprising was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the official agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader 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 popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue 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 responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.