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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

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

The September revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older 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 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 current political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with several major political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.