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In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

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

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

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's older political leadership. 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 seen as a central player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.