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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of major political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.