Kathmandu, March 27, 2026 – Balendra Shah, a 35-year-old rapper and civil engineer, was sworn in as Nepal’s 47th Prime Minister, marking a significant shift in the country’s politics. Shah, popularly known as Balen, took the oath of office from President Ram Chandra Poudel at a ceremony in Kathmandu, promising a new era of governance focused on anti-corruption, meritocracy, and justice.
Shah’s Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) secured a landslide victory in the March 5 elections, winning 182 of 275 seats in the House of Representatives. This historic win reflects deep voter fatigue with Nepal’s traditional parties and a desire for change, particularly among young voters.
The new cabinet, announced by Shah, includes several fresh faces, with a focus on competence and diversity. Key appointments include Swarnim Wagle as Finance Minister, Sudan Gurung as Home Minister, and Shishir Khanal as Foreign Minister.
Shah’s appointment is seen as a significant moment for Nepal, with many expecting his government to bring a new direction to the country’s politics and governance.
