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In a notable move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was signed.

The September revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role 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 country's established political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently 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 key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Government Consultations Taking Place

In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the period of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.