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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The September revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Partnership

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve 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 popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to alleged 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 played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with several major political figures. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.