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In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

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

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent 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 reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in forming the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, 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 secure and open atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.