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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns

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

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

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 underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently 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 key player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

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