The nation’s rapper-­turned-­politician Balendra Shah was sworn in as prime minister after sweeping the first election since deadly anti-corruption protests toppled the government last year. The 35-year-old reformist and his Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) dominated this month’s polls on a platform of youth-driven political change, making him the country’s youngest prime minister. He campaigned alongside the RSP president, combative television host Rabi Lamichhane, 51, a former deputy prime minister and interior minister, and now a fellow lawmaker who retains a pivotal role in power. Shortly after his rap song was released, the outgoing interim prime minister bid farewell to the nation in a televised broadcast. Four-time prime minister and Marxist leader Oli, 74, was defea­ted by Shah in Oli’s own consti­tuency.

Source: The Star March 28, 2026 02:01 UTC