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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

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

The September uprising was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad 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 not long ago released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure 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.

Wider Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.