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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address 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 focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

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

The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has previously held the posts 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 was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream 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 shared duty. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.