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In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to 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 prioritize the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, 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 party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing broad 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 viewed as a central figure in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Consultations Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival major 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 holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.