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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

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

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, 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 alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.