Archive · 30 Dec 2025
Nepal's Ex-Rapper Mayor and TV Host Form Election Alliance
In Nepal, a former rapper named Balen Shah, who is now the mayor of Kathmandu, and a former TV host named Rabi Lamichhane have teamed up to run in the upcoming elections.
They want to challenge the older political parties that have been in power for a long time.
Balen will run for prime minister if their party wins.
They both promise to fight corruption, which was a big issue in recent protests where many young people were involved.
Some people are not sure if their alliance will be successful, but others think it's a smart move to attract young voters.
The elections are happening on March 5, and nearly 19 million people can vote.
Some critics question Balen's role in the protests and Lamichhane's past controversies, including a bail case for alleged fund misuse.
Balen Shah, a former rapper and current Kathmandu mayor, has joined forces with Rabi Lamichhane's Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) to run in Nepal's March 5 elections.
If RSP wins, Balen will become prime minister while Lamichhane remains party chief.
Both leaders aim to address youth demands from September protests against corruption, which led to the resignation of former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.
Analysts see this alliance as a strategic move to attract young voters, challenging traditional parties like the Communist Party of Nepal (UML) and Nepali Congress.
Critics question Balen's role in the protests and Lamichhane's past controversies, including a bail case for alleged fund misuse.
- Who
- Balen Shah and Rabi Lamichhane
- What
- Alliance to challenge older parties in Nepal's elections
- When
- March 5 elections, following September protests
- Where
- Nepal
- Why
- To address youth demands and combat corruption
- Candidates
- Balen Shah, Rabi Lamichhane
- Party
- Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP)
- Election Date
- March 5
- Eligible Voters
- 19 million
- Protests
- 77 people killed, led to PM Oli's resignation
- Criticism
- Balen's role in protests questioned, Lamichhane's bail case
- Lamichhane's Status
- Out on bail for alleged fund misuse
Sources
Nepal's Former Rapper to Run for PM in Key Vote After Gen Z Protests
Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah named PM face as RSP forges alliance ahead of Nepal polls
Nepal’s unlikely duo: TV host and ex-rapper mayor form alliance ahead of election after youth revolt
Balen Shah Declared Nepal PM Face As Gen Z-Backed Parties Form Alliance For 2026 Polls
