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In a significant development ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government.

A Pledge 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 publicly pledged to focus on the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which led to significant loss of life.

"Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was signed.

The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted graft in politics.

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

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the ousted administration was removed.

Broader Political Discussions Taking Place

In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend held meetings with several major political figures. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising.

After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.