🔗 Share this article Nepal's Political Scene Witnesses Significant Alliance Forged By TV Host and Ex-Rapper Mayor In a significant development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly young people's protests that shook the country earlier this year and ultimately resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government. A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life. "Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was finalized. The September uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic political corruption. Terms of the New Electoral Partnership According to the official agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson of the RSP. Meanwhile, 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 founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently 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 viewed as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed. Broader Political Consultations Taking Place In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently held meetings with several major political leaders. These discussions involved former prime ministers and the presidents of rival mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising. Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The statement reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and open environment for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.