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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's established political class. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political leaders. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

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