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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation'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 alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several major political figures. These talks included former 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 free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.