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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 alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal young people's protests 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

Television host 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 raised by the younger generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption 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 after the deal was signed.

The late summer revolt was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Electoral Agreement

According to the formal pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. In turn, 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 established political leadership. He has previously served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Political Discussions Underway

In a separate event, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with several major political figures. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the protests.

Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a collective duty. The message affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.