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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth 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 grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving alleged 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 ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.