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In a significant development 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 young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several leading political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.