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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader 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 fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the country's established political leadership. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago 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 seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.