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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position 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 established political class. He has previously served in the posts 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several major political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.