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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The September revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests.

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