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In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the sitting government.

A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Concerns

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to focus on the issues raised by the younger generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life.

"Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the New Political Agreement

According to the official agreement, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader 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 class. He has previously held 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 thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the previous administration was dissolved.

Broader Political Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.