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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving 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 forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.