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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, 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 role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently held consultations with a number of leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival 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 free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.