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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal 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 deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the official agreement, 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 nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with several leading political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.