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In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns

Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to prioritize the issues raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Consensus must not be what a leader wants, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was finalized.

The late summer revolt was triggered by public 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.

Details of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, 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 television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political leadership. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held consultations with several major political figures. These talks included former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and open atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.