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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread 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 Address Youth Concerns

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

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

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.