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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of widespread and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the ouster of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the issues raised by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The September revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the country's established political class. He has previously held the posts 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 key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Government Discussions Taking Place

In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political figures. These discussions included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time 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 responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.