The Digester
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Balendra Shah sworn in as Nepal prime minister

Rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah, 35, took office after his Rastriya Swatantra Party won the March 5 election held after deadly anti-corruption protests.

Mar 27th 2026 · Nepal

Insights

  • Balendra Shah was sworn in as prime minister and pledged loyalty to the constitution.
  • His Rastriya Swatantra Party won the March 5 parliamentary election.
  • The vote was the first since anti-corruption protests toppled the previous government and at least 77 people were killed.
  • The protests began over a brief social media ban and reflected wider public anger over economic hardship.

Sources