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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

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

The September uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions 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 role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts 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 seen as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with a number of major political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the protests.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.