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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

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

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

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson 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 TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's established political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.