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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to significant casualties.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. 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 popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. 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 reported 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 caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with several leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.