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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the incumbent government.

A Pledge 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 vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption 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 nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral 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 party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed 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 forming the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.