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In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath 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 Pledge to Address 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 officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

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

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

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released 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 transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.