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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure 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 commitment follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was sparked by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently 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 seen as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.