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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal 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 former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles 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 role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed 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 viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.