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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the roles 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 position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country'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 related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current 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 first such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.