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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching 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 role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving alleged 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 was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several leading political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.