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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 alliance comes in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently 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 key player in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Underway

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.