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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles 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 party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's older political class. He has in the past held 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major 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 conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.