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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties.

"Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the official pact, the roles 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 position 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 broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political class. He has previously served in the posts 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 central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.