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

A Pledge to Address Young People's 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 issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

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

The September uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a catalyst for underlying resentment stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics.

Terms of the New 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 party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's established political class. He has in the past held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently 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 viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Wider Political Discussions Taking Place

In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several leading political figures. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising.

Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The message reiterated the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.