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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 alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately 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 pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

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

The September uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party'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 established the RSP in 2022, capturing 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 reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.