🔗 Share this article The Himalayan nation's Electoral Landscape Sees Significant Alliance Forged Between TV Host and Ex-Rapper Mayor In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the removal of the incumbent government. A Commitment to Tackle Youth Concerns Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties. "Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed. The late summer revolt was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption. Terms of the New Electoral Partnership According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the chairperson 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 popular fifty-one-year-old television personality, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political class. He has previously held the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently freed on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime. Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central player in Nepal's current political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved. Wider Political Discussions Taking Place In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with a number of major political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the protests. Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and open environment for the electoral process, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.