Nepali Rapper Balen Shah Becomes Prime Minister After Election Victory

Kathmandu: Popular Nepali rapper and political figure Balen Shah, also known as Balendra Shah, has been sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Nepal following a decisive victory in the country’s recent general elections.

The 35-year-old reformist leader rose to power after elections held in the wake of anti-corruption protests that led to the fall of the previous government. His party, the Rastriya Swatantra Party, secured a clear majority by winning 182 seats in the 275-member House of Representatives.

During the oath-taking ceremony, Shah pledged allegiance to the constitution and vowed to serve the nation and its people. Supporters welcomed him enthusiastically, chanting slogans in his favor.

Outgoing caretaker Prime Minister and former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, in her farewell address, expressed hope that the new government would tackle corruption, improve governance, create jobs, and boost economic growth.

Shah, who previously served as the mayor of Kathmandu, officially became Prime Minister after the March 5 elections. A day before his swearing-in, he released a new music video on social media highlighting patriotism and a vision for a brighter future.

After taking office, Shah announced a 14-member cabinet as part of his pledge to reduce government expenditures. He appointed Harvard-educated economist Swarnim Wagley as the country’s Finance Minister.