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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

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

The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching 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 position 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 nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the positions 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 player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several major political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.