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In a notable development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle 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 pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

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

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has previously 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 central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was removed.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.