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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address 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 pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve 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 discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.