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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

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

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.