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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.