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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate 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 founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's established political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed 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 current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.