Rapper-turned mayor Balendra Shah to run for Nepal PM
What's the story
In a major political development, former rapper and Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah has joined the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in Nepal. The 35-year-old will be the party's prime ministerial candidate in the upcoming March 5 elections, Reuters reported. The RSP is headed by another celebrity, former TV host-turned-politician Rabi Lamichhane, who will continue as party chief under this agreement.
Political journey
Balen's rise to political prominence
Shah, popularly known as Balen, was elected as the mayor of Kathmandu. His election victory was largely attributed to his popularity and appeal among young voters. The RSP's decision to field him as its prime ministerial candidate is seen as a strategic move to attract young voters disillusioned with traditional political parties. Lamichhane has previously served as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs of Nepal.
Voter appeal
RSP's strategy to attract young voters
Analyst Bipin Adhikari was quoted as saying, "It is a very smart and strategic move by the RSP to bring in Balen and his young supporters into its fold." He added that traditional political parties are worried about losing their young voter base to the RSP. The party's focus on youth issues comes after widespread protests in September over corruption, which led to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's resignation.
Election promise
RSP's commitment to addressing youth concerns
The RSP has promised to address the issues raised during the youth-led protests, which left 77 dead. The party's focus on tackling corruption and engaging with young voters could shake up Nepal's political landscape. This alliance between Shah and Lamichhane could challenge the dominance of older parties that have ruled Nepal for over three decades.