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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the younger generation. This promise comes after the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in significant loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Electoral Partnership

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has in the past held the positions 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 key figure in Nepal's current political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with several leading political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.