Balendra Shah Defeats Former PM KP Sharma Oli
Rapper Balendra Shah has triumphed over former Nepalese Prime Minister Sharma KP Oli in his parliamentary constituency, moving closer to becoming Nepal's next prime minister.
Nepal's Election Commission confirmed on Saturday that Shah, aged 35, secured 68,348 votes, surpassing Oli's 18,734 votes to unseat the former leader in his constituency.
Election Context and Youth Influence
The general election held on Thursday was the first since violent youth-led protests toppled the government in September. It featured a contest between the established political figures and a new generation of politicians appealing to young Gen Z voters seeking change.
Shah's Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) appears to be on track to win the general election.
For over two decades, Nepal has experienced a cycle of coalition governments predominantly controlled by three parties, two of which are communist.
This election tested whether Gen Z voters had succeeded in persuading the broader population that a new, untested generation should determine the country's future, or whether veteran political heavyweights who have dominated for decades would retain power.
The youth vote was significant, with 800,000 first-time voters making them a crucial electoral bloc.
Balendra Shah's Background and Political Rise
Known popularly as Balen, Shah has been active in the Nepali hip hop scene for several years. One of his songs, "Balidan," which means sacrifice in Nepali, has garnered millions of views on YouTube.
In September 2025, Nepal experienced unrest triggered by Gen Z demonstrations following Oli's ban on social media platforms.
The protests escalated as demonstrators criticized Nepal's political system and the symbolism of class inequality, particularly targeting "nepo babies" — children of the country's politicians.
A total of 77 people were killed during the protests. A BBC investigation revealed that the country's police chief had issued an order to use lethal force against thousands of unarmed protesters.
Shah expressed support for the protesters and at one point labeled Oli a "terrorist" who had betrayed his country.
The rapper generally avoids media attention but told the Financial Times during his campaign that he would be
"the candidate for all of Nepal"
RSP's Manifesto and Policy Goals
Shah's RSP released its manifesto in February, pledging to create 1.2 million jobs and reduce forced migration. This strategy aims to address frustration over unemployment and low wages that have driven millions of Nepalis to seek work overseas.
The party has also committed to raising Nepal's per capita income from $1,447 to $3,000 within five years, more than doubling the country's economy to a $100 billion GDP. Additionally, it plans to provide safety nets such as healthcare insurance for the population.
