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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the incumbent 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 former rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's older political class. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted meetings with several major political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests.

After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.