Balen Shah becomes Nepal Prime Minister

Balen Shah, a 35-year-old rapper-turned-politician, has been sworn in as Nepal's youngest Prime Minister after his Nepal — Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) achieved a landslide victory in the March 5 general elections. This event follows deadly anti-corruption protests in September 2025, which were largely led by Generation Z and toppled the previous government. Shah's victory and the RSP's commanding majority in the 275-member parliament mark a significant departure from traditional political parties like the Nepal — Nepali Congress and the Nepal — Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist), which saw their influence diminish. Outgoing interim prime minister Sushila Karki expressed confidence in the new youth-led government to tackle corruption, improve governance, and create jobs. A leaked report from an investigation ordered by Karki recommends the prosecution of former prime minister K. P. Sharma Oli, former interior minister Ramesh Lekhak, and ex-police chief Chandra Kuber Khapung for their roles in the crackdown on protesters, which resulted in at least 77 deaths. Shah has released a rap song calling for unity and has named key cabinet posts, including Sudhan Gurung as interior minister, Swarnim Wagle for finance, and Shishir Khanal for foreign affairs. International entities like Pakistan, China, and India have congratulated Shah on his appointment, expressing hopes for strengthened bilateral relations.