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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 alliance comes in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads 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 new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate 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, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's older political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.