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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 teamed up. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment 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 pledged to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of systemic graft in politics.

Details of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to state that holding a free and fair election is a collective duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.