KATHMANDU – Rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah is poised to become Nepal’s next prime minister following the country’s first general election since last September’s youth-led uprising.
The 35-year-old musician, known popularly as Balen, gained national attention after the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. On social media, Balendra Shah urged the younger generation to lead the country, writing, “Now your generation will have to lead the country. Be prepared.”
Early election results show Balendra Shah’s Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) leading in around 100 seats, far ahead of rivals. Final results, covering 165 direct vote seats and 110 proportional representation seats, are expected in the coming days. Analysts predict the RSP will likely form the next government, with the Nepali Congress already conceding defeat.
Shah’s popularity is partly credited to his tenure as Kathmandu’s mayor, where he focused on urban infrastructure, waste management, and service delivery. His policies have drawn both praise and criticism, including allegations from Human Rights Watch regarding property seizures of street vendors and landless citizens.
Unlike traditional politicians, Shah communicates directly with citizens through social media, connecting strongly with young Nepalis. His posts reach over 3.5 million followers, bypassing mainstream press channels. Political analyst Puranjan Acharya noted that while Shah’s appeal is strong, leading Nepal as prime minister will be “not a cakewalk.”
Born to a father practicing Ayurvedic medicine and a homemaker mother, Shah’s early interest in poetry evolved into rap. Influenced by Tupac and 50 Cent, his songs often criticize the ruling class. His 2019 hit “Balidan” has over 12 million YouTube views and emphasizes speaking truth to power.
Joining the RSP last December, Shah campaigned on promises to create 1.2 million jobs, reduce forced migration, and double per capita income within five years. Analysts emphasize that much of his success will depend on assembling a competent team to reform Nepal’s administrative system.
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Shah’s rise from rap artist to political frontrunner reflects a generational shift in Nepalese politics, signaling a potential new era for the Himalayan nation.
