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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served 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 Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving reported 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 shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.