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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster 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 publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer uprising 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 years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee 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, capturing broad discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past served in the posts 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 transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.