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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Television host 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 grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party'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 founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.