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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.