In a historic shift for the Himalayan nation, rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah was officially sworn in as the Prime Minister of Nepal on Friday. The 35-year-old reformist led his Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) to a dominant victory in the first general election held since last year’s deadly anti-corruption protests. Clad in his signature black attire and trademark dark sunglasses, Shah took his oath in the name of the country and its people, pledging unwavering loyalty to the constitution amidst roaring cheers from supporters.
The ascent of the leader popularly known as “Balen” follows a period of intense civil unrest that resulted in the deaths of at least 77 people. What began as a social media ban evolved into a massive youth-led uprising against economic hardship and systemic corruption, eventually toppling the previous administration. Shah’s campaign resonated deeply with the younger generation, promised structural political change, and culminated in the RSP securing a commanding majority of 182 seats in the 275-member House of Representatives.
Breaking his post-election silence in a unique fashion, Shah released a rap song on social media a day before the ceremony, which quickly garnered millions of views. The lyrics, which touched on national unity and the boiling courage of the youth, served as his first public statement since the March 5 polls. During the inauguration, the new Prime Minister moved swiftly to appoint his cabinet, naming former youth activist Sudan Gurung as the Interior Minister to oversee domestic security and governance.
The new administration faces the daunting task of reviving Nepal’s battered economy and navigating complex diplomatic waters. To address these issues, Shah has appointed Swarnim Wagle, a former United Nations economic advisor, as Finance Minister, while Shishir Khanal takes the helm as Foreign Minister. The international community has responded quickly to the transition, with both India and China issuing congratulatory messages and expressing a desire to deepen practical cooperation and friendship with the new leadership.
Outgoing interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, who led the caretaker government for six months, expressed her delight in handing over the reins to a member of the younger generation. As the 73-year-old former chief justice stepped down, she urged Shah to balance “caution and boldness” in fulfilling the people’s mandate. Meanwhile, a leaked investigation report into the previous year’s protest crackdown has recommended the prosecution of former leaders, adding a layer of judicial expectation to Shah’s early tenure as he seeks to deliver the justice promised during his campaign.
