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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the removal of the sitting government.

A Pledge to Address Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly vowed to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable casualties.

"Agreement must not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized.

The September uprising was sparked by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a catalyst for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption.

Details of the Fresh Political Agreement

According to the formal agreement, the positions for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad public dissatisfaction with the nation's established political leadership. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that came to power after the ousted administration was dissolved.

Wider Government Consultations Taking Place

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with several major political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream 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 free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.