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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 aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

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

The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.