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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, 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 set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with a number of leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.