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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. 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 incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles 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 party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed 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 current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of major political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.