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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

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

The late summer uprising was sparked by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently 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 key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a credible election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.