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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 youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

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

The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations 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 defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, 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 television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad 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 figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.