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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh 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 candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past held 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 key 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.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with a number of major political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.