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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political class. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several major political leaders. 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 posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.