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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the wake of widespread 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 Tackle 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 officially vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in 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 September uprising was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles for the imminent 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 well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared 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 eliminate any uncertainty.