Nepali Rapper Balendra Shah Sworn in as Prime Minister After Landslide Victory
Kathmandu, March 27, 2026 — Nepal’s rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah was officially sworn in as the country’s prime minister on Friday, marking a historic political shift following months of unrest and anti-corruption protests.
The 35-year-old leader, popularly known as Balen, rose to power after his party, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), secured a decisive victory in the March 5 general elections. The party won 182 out of 275 seats in the House of Representatives, campaigning on a platform centered on youth-driven reform and anti-corruption.
Dressed in his signature all-black outfit and dark sunglasses, Shah took the oath of office, pledging allegiance to the Constitution and commitment to national service. Supporters at the ceremony erupted in cheers, reflecting widespread public enthusiasm for his leadership.
Shah’s emergence comes in the wake of deadly protests that toppled the previous administration. At least 77 people were killed during the anti-corruption demonstrations, which were initially triggered by a brief social media ban but quickly escalated due to long-standing public frustration over economic hardship and governance issues.
In an unconventional move, Shah broke his post-election silence by releasing a rap song on social media a day before his inauguration. The track, which quickly gained millions of views, emphasized unity, resilience, and determination—key themes of his campaign.
He campaigned alongside prominent media personality and RSP president Rabi Lamichhane, a former deputy prime minister who remains an influential figure within the new government.
Outgoing interim prime minister Sushila Karki, who led a caretaker administration for six months, expressed confidence in the new leadership. She highlighted hopes for improved governance, job creation, and social justice under Shah’s administration.
Karki also noted that a report into the protest crackdown would soon be released. A leaked version reportedly recommends the prosecution of former prime minister KP Sharma Oli, along with other top officials, over their roles during the unrest.
Despite findings that no direct order to open fire was established, the report accuses authorities of failing to prevent violence, which resulted in multiple deaths, including minors.
Shah’s victory and swearing-in signal a generational shift in Nepalese politics, with many citizens hopeful that his leadership will usher in transparency, accountability, and economic progress.
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