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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.