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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported 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 came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.