🔗 Share this article The Himalayan nation's Political Scene Sees Major Partnership Forged Between TV Host and Former Musician Mayor In a notable move ahead of next year's national polls, a pair of high-profile figures in Nepali politics have joined forces. This coalition emerges in the wake of large-scale and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government. A Pledge to Tackle Youth 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 commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which led to considerable casualties. "Agreement should not be as the leader seeks, it should be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was signed. The late summer revolt was sparked by widespread frustration over a short-lived government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a spark for underlying resentment stemming from years of slow growth and persistent allegations of deep-rooted graft in politics. Details of the New Political Partnership According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. Meanwhile, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election scheduled for 5 March. Rabi Lamichhane: A well-known 51-year-old TV host, he founded the RSP in 2022, capturing widespread public dissatisfaction with the nation's established 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 involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime. Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a key player in Nepal's ongoing political shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was removed. Wider Government Discussions Taking Place In a related development, the sitting interim prime minister over the weekend conducted consultations with a number of major political leaders. These talks involved ex- prime ministers and the heads of rival major parties, marking the first such dialogue since the time of the protests. Following these meetings, the prime minister posted on social media to state that conducting a credible election is a collective responsibility. The message reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and open environment for the polls, adding that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.