Ex-rapper Balendra Shah set to be Nepal PM after party’s landslide election win

The Guardian - World NewsEN 4 min read 100% complete by Hannah Ellis-Petersen in Delhi and Gaurav Pokharel in KathmanduMarch 8, 2026 at 02:47 PM

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Former rapper Balendra Shah, also known as Balen, is poised to become Nepal's next prime minister after his Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) secured a significant victory in recent elections. The RSP, formed just three years ago, capitalized on public discontent with established political parties, winning a majority of seats in the first election since youth-led protests. Shah, an engineer who previously served as mayor of Kathmandu, gained prominence through his anti-corruption platform and efforts to improve the city. The election results reflect a desire for change among young Nepalis, with veteran politicians losing ground to the RSP. Final results, including proportional representation seats, are expected soon.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Damak 30% Jhapa district 30% Kathmandu 40% Ramesh Paudyal 50% Nepal ×480% Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) ×680% Balendra Shah (Balen) ×790%

Keywords

nepal election 100% balendra shah 90% rastriya swatantra party 80% youth movement 70% political change 70% gen z 60% landslide victory 50% corruption 50% political old guard 40%

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nepal election balendra shah rastriya swatantra party youth movement political change gen z landslide victory corruption political old guard

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