Rapper-turned-politician votes in Nepal election

In Nepal, general elections were held on March 5, 2026. Among those casting a ballot was Balendra Shah, the 35-year-old former mayor of Kathmandu. Shah, who previously worked as a rapper, entered politics and participated in the election process. The election took place approximately six months after youth-led anti-corruption protests resulted in the collapse of the previous government. The elections are being closely watched as a potential turning point following the recent political upheaval.