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In a notable development ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The September uprising was triggered by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in 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 seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Underway

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.