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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's older political leadership. 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 related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of major political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.