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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment 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 pledged to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

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

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

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions 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 alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released 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 figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.