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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad 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 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 key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, 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 ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.