🔗 Share this article The Himalayan nation's Political Scene Sees Major Alliance Forged Between TV Host and Ex-Rapper Mayor In a significant move ahead of next year's national polls, two prominent figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This alliance emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's protests that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the ouster of the sitting government. A Pledge to Tackle Young People's Concerns Television host Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly pledged to focus on the grievances raised by the younger generation. This promise follows the turbulent anti-graft unrest that occurred in September, which resulted in significant loss of life. "Consensus must not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," stated Lamichhane following the deal was finalized. The late summer uprising was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident served as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of slow growth and longstanding accusations of deep-rooted political corruption. Terms of the New Political Agreement According to the formal pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the party's nominee for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March. Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known fifty-one-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, capturing broad discontent with the country's older political class. He has in the past served in the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case related to alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime. Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a central player in Nepal's current political transition. He played a role in forming the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved. Wider Government Consultations Underway In a related event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of leading political figures. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of other major parties, marking the initial such dialogue since the time of the uprising. Following these discussions, the prime minister posted on social media to emphasize that conducting a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's commitment to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free atmosphere for the electoral process, adding that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.