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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes 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 Pledge to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The September revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal pact, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader 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 television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released 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 viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to 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 atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.