🔗 Share this article Nepal's Electoral Landscape Witnesses Major Alliance Forged By TV Host and Former Musician Mayor In a notable move ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of high-profile personalities in Nepali politics have teamed up. This coalition comes in the aftermath of large-scale and deadly youth-led protests that rocked the country earlier this year and ultimately led to the removal of the incumbent government. A Pledge to Address Young People's Demands Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have officially vowed to focus on the grievances highlighted by the new generation. This promise comes after the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which led to considerable loss of life. "Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized. The late summer uprising was sparked by public frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent accusations of deep-rooted political corruption. Details of the New Political Agreement According to the formal agreement, the roles for the imminent election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the position of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March. Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling broad discontent with the nation's established political leadership. He has previously served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving reported cooperative fraud and organized crime. Balendra Shah (Balen): The 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is viewed as a key figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that came to power after the previous administration was dissolved. Broader Government Discussions Underway In a separate event, the current interim prime minister over the weekend held consultations with several leading political leaders. These talks included former prime ministers and the heads of other mainstream parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising. Following these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a free and fair election is a collective responsibility. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any uncertainty.