🔗 Share this article Nepal's Electoral Scene Sees Major Alliance Formed By TV Host and Former Musician Mayor In a significant move ahead of next year's general election, a pair of prominent personalities in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting 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 publicly pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the new generation. This commitment follows the violent anti-corruption protests that took place in September, which led to significant casualties. "Agreement must not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the nation requires," stated Lamichhane following the deal was signed. The September revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper resentment stemming from a long period of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted political corruption. Terms of the New Political Partnership According to the official pact, the positions for the imminent election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March. Rabi Lamichhane: A popular fifty-one-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 served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime. Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed. Broader Political Consultations Taking Place In a separate event, the current interim prime minister recently conducted consultations with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the period of the protests. Following these meetings, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement affirmed the government's dedication to guaranteeing a safe and open atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.