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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The September uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the country's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions 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 central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Underway

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.