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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Television host 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 issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance'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, capturing widespread discontent with the country's established political class. He has in the past 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 seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.