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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate 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, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. He has previously served in the posts 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.