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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Concerns

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

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position 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, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.