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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads 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 comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in significant casualties.

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

The late summer uprising was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Details of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of major political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.