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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting 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 pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September revolt was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.