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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by public anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.