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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles 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 candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other 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 free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.