Balendra Shah has been sworn in as Nepal’s prime minister at age 35. His decisive election victory signals public frustration with corruption and elite politics. Shah’s rise reflects strong support among younger voters seeking reform and accountability. Shah, formerly Kathmandu’s mayor, led the Rastriya Swatantra Party to a clear parliamentary majority. He defeated former Prime […]
Nepal elections 2026
Nepal’s Jhapa-5 becomes key battleground ahead of elections
Nepal’s eastern district of Jhapa-5 has emerged as a pivotal battleground ahead of the March 5 elections, following deadly anti-corruption protests that toppled the government last September. Two prime ministerial candidates, former leader KP Sharma Oli and rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah, are competing for the constituency. The outcome in this seat could determine who leads the […]
Nepal’s rapper-turned-politician eyes prime minister post
Rapper-turned-Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, has joined the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) led by former TV host-turned-politician Rabi Lamichhane ahead of Nepal’s March parliamentary elections. The alliance signals a challenge to parties that have dominated Nepalese politics for over three decades. Under the agreement, 35-year-old Balen is set to become prime minister […]