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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.

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

The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Political Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has previously 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival major 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 dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.