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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt 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 years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving 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 ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with several leading political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.