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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

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 issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread 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.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political leadership. 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 key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

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 heads of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.