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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

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

The September uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, 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 TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

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