Mar 9 • 08:44 UTC 🇮🇹 Italy Il Giornale

Nepal, Balendra Shah new prime minister: who is the former rapper who will lead the country

Balendra Shah is set to become the new prime minister of Nepal after defeating his political rival in the recent general elections.

Balendra Shah, leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), is poised to be officially named the new prime minister of Nepal as the election results are finalized. Shah achieved a significant victory over former Prime Minister Sharma Kp Oli in his constituency of Jhapa-5, receiving 68,348 votes to Oli's 18,734. The recent general elections come on the heels of a youth-led uprising that forced the resignation of the previous government, signaling a clear preference for Shah and the anti-establishment RSP.

At just 35 years old, Balendra Shah, also known as Balen, has transitioned from a prominent figure in the Nepali hip-hop scene to a political leader, capturing the youth vote with his charismatic persona. One of his most popular songs, "Balidan," which speaks of sacrifice in the Nepali language, has garnered millions of views on YouTube, reflecting his strong connection to the younger demographic that is increasingly wary of traditional political structures.

The electorate's support for Shah indicates a growing desire for change in Nepal’s political landscape, particularly among younger voters who played a key role in the recent demonstrations against the previous government. This election may mark a turning point for the nation as Shah and the RSP aim to implement reforms and address the grievances expressed by the Generation Z activists who rallied for political accountability and transparency. The implications of Shah's leadership will unfold as he takes on the challenges of governance in a country seeking renewal and stability.

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