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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

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 grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain 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 popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.