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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the issues raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.