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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.