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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure 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 new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader 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 popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation'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 released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of major political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.