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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

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

The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, 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 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously held the positions 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 seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.