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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Underway

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

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.