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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 eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader 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, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several major political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.