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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance'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, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several leading political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.