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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.