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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

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

The late summer 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 deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, 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 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the posts 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 seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with a number of major political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair 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 eliminate any uncertainty.