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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching 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 television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to reported 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 current political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several leading political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.