🔗 Share this article The Himalayan nation's Electoral Scene Sees Major Alliance Formed Between TV Host and Ex-Rapper Mayor In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, two prominent personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the sitting government. A Commitment to Address Young People's Demands Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have officially pledged to prioritize the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties. "Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane after the agreement was signed. The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics. Details of the New Electoral Agreement According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain 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 scheduled for 5 March. Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread discontent with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the posts 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 key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He was instrumental in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved. Wider Political Discussions Taking Place In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with several major political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such gathering since the period of the protests. After these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a shared duty. The message affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.