🔗 Share this article Nepal's Political Scene Witnesses Significant Alliance Formed Between Media Personality and Ex-Rapper Mayor In a notable development ahead of the upcoming national polls, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and deadly youth-led demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the incumbent government. A Commitment to Tackle Young People's Demands Television host 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 promise follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in considerable casualties. "Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane after the deal was signed. The September uprising was sparked by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from years of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics. Details of the Fresh Political Partnership According to the formal agreement, 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 role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March. Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the country'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 related to reported cooperative fraud and organized crime. Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the caretaker government that came to power after the ousted administration was removed. Broader Political Consultations Taking Place In a separate development, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political leaders. These discussions involved ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the time of the uprising. Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a shared duty. The statement affirmed the government's commitment to guaranteeing a safe and open environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any uncertainty.