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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

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

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to alleged 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 took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.