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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns

Television host 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 highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The September uprising was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to 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 played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.