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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer uprising was sparked by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's established political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with several leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.