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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The late summer uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has previously 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 viewed as a central figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.