đź”— Share this article The Himalayan nation's Electoral Scene Witnesses Major Alliance Forged By Media Personality and Former Musician Mayor In a significant development ahead of the upcoming general election, a pair of prominent figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance emerges in the wake of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that shook the country earlier this year and eventually led to the ouster of the sitting government. A Pledge to Tackle Youth Concerns Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a former rapper, have publicly vowed to focus on the issues highlighted by the new generation. This promise follows the violent anti-corruption unrest that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life. "Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the country needs," remarked Lamichhane following the deal was finalized. The late summer revolt was triggered by widespread frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This incident acted as a catalyst for deeper discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption. Terms of the New Electoral Partnership According to the official agreement, the positions for the approaching election have been defined. Rabi Lamichhane will remain as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the alliance's nominee for the position of prime minister in the election set for 5 March. Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old television personality, he founded the RSP in 2022, channeling broad public dissatisfaction with the country's older political leadership. He has previously held the positions of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was recently released on bail in a case involving alleged 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 shift. He played a role in setting up the interim government that took over after the ousted administration was dissolved. Wider Political Discussions Taking Place In a related event, the sitting interim prime minister recently conducted 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 period of the protests. After 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 dedication to guaranteeing a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to remove any room for doubt.