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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

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

The September revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role 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 served in 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.