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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster 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 former rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political leadership. He has previously 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.