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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the official 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 alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in 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 viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several leading political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.