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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral 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. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has in the past held 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 figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.