🔗 Share this article Nepal's Political Scene Witnesses Major Alliance Formed By Media Personality and Former Musician Mayor In a notable move ahead of next year's general election, two high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of large-scale and fatal youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government. A Commitment to Address Young People's Concerns Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who heads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption protests that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life. "Agreement should not be what a leader wants, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized. The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread anger over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent accusations of systemic graft in politics. Details of the Fresh Electoral Partnership According to the formal pact, the positions 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 alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March. Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's older political leadership. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently 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 key figure in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the previous administration was removed. Wider Political Consultations Underway In a related event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted meetings with a number of major political figures. These talks involved former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the uprising. After these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared duty. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.