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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment 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 publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

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

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted 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 leader 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, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction 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 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 previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of leading political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.