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In a significant development ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

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

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role 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, capturing widespread discontent with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past held the posts 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 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with a number of major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed 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 uncertainty.