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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

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

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

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson 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 well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.