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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

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

The late summer revolt was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. 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 popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several major political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.