🔗 Share this article Nepal's Political Scene Sees Major Partnership Formed By TV Host and Ex-Rapper Mayor In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the incumbent government. A Commitment to Address Youth Concerns Media figure 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 grievances raised by the new generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which led to significant casualties. "Consensus should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane after the deal was finalized. The September revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This action acted as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption. Details of the Fresh Political Agreement According to the official pact, the roles for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March. Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's established political class. He has in the past held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago freed on bail in a case related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime. Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He played a role in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was removed. Wider Political Consultations Underway In a related development, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These discussions included former prime ministers and the presidents of other mainstream parties, marking the first such gathering since the time of the uprising. After 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 atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.