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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to 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 publicly pledged to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the country's older political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.