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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

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

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt 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 graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance'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, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed 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 central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads 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 emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.