Nepal Election: Rapper-Turned-Politician Shah’s Party Wins Big | Nikkei Asia

Kathmandu – Nepal is poised for a political shift as the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), a relatively new political force founded just three years ago and led by former Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah, is projected to win a majority in this week’s parliamentary election. The outcome marks a significant rebuke of established political dynasties and signals a growing appetite for change among Nepali voters. Shah himself secured a victory over former prime minister KP Sharma Oli in their head-to-head contest, further cementing the RSP’s breakthrough.

The RSP’s rise is particularly notable given Shah’s unconventional background. A structural engineer and rapper, Shah first gained prominence as Kathmandu’s first independent mayor in 2022. His campaign resonated with a younger electorate frustrated with traditional political parties and endemic corruption. He resigned from the mayoral position in January 2026 to pursue a national role, and now, as the RSP’s prime ministerial candidate, appears set to lead the country.

From Local Office to National Stage

Shah’s transition from local governance to national politics reflects a broader trend of dissatisfaction with Nepal’s established political order. The country has experienced political instability for decades, with frequent changes in government and a persistent struggle to achieve economic development. Voters appear to be seeking alternatives to the Nepali Congress and the CPN (UML), the two parties that have historically dominated Nepali politics. The RSP’s platform, focused on anti-corruption measures and economic reform, has clearly struck a chord with a population weary of the status quo.

The scale of the RSP’s potential victory is striking. Founded in 2022, the party has rapidly gained traction, capitalizing on public frustration and Shah’s personal popularity. The party’s success is likewise attributed to its effective use of social media and its ability to mobilize young voters. Nikkei Asia reports that voters are “weary of the status quo” and are opting for change with this new centrist group.

The Defeat of a Political Veteran

The defeat of KP Sharma Oli, a veteran politician who has served as prime minister on multiple occasions, is a particularly significant outcome. Oli, representing the CPN (UML), had been a dominant figure in Nepali politics for years. His loss to Shah symbolizes the changing dynamics of the Nepali political landscape and the declining influence of established political figures. Oli’s defeat occurred in the Jhapa 5 constituency, a traditionally UML stronghold, highlighting the extent of the RSP’s inroads.

What Which means for Nepal’s Economy

While the full implications of the RSP’s victory remain to be seen, the party’s economic platform suggests a potential shift in Nepal’s economic policies. The RSP has advocated for reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment, promoting entrepreneurship, and tackling corruption, all of which could have a positive impact on the country’s economic growth. Yet, the party will face significant challenges in implementing its agenda, including navigating a complex political landscape and addressing Nepal’s deep-seated economic problems.

Nepal’s economy has been struggling in recent years, hampered by political instability, natural disasters (including a devastating earthquake in 2015), and the COVID-19 pandemic. The country’s GDP growth rate has been volatile, and poverty remains a significant challenge. The RSP’s ability to address these issues will be crucial in determining its long-term success. The country’s reliance on remittances from Nepali workers abroad also makes it vulnerable to external economic shocks.

Shah’s Unique Background and Potential Challenges

Balendra Shah’s background as a structural engineer and rapper is highly unusual for a Nepali politician. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Himalayan WhiteHouse International College and a Master of Technology in Structural Engineering from VTU. According to his Wikipedia profile, he has been active in the Nepalese hip-hop scene since 2012. This unconventional profile has undoubtedly contributed to his appeal, particularly among younger voters.

However, Shah’s lack of extensive political experience could also pose challenges. He will need to build alliances with other political parties and navigate the complexities of Nepali politics to effectively govern the country. His success will depend on his ability to translate his popular appeal into concrete policy achievements. As a member of the Maithili-speaking community, if elected prime minister, he would be the first from that group and the first Madheshiya Nepali to hold the office, potentially reshaping Nepal’s political representation.

Next Steps: Forming a Government and Economic Policy

The immediate next step is for the RSP to form a government. Given that the party is unlikely to have an outright majority, Shah will need to forge alliances with other political parties to secure a parliamentary majority. Negotiations are expected to be complex and could take several weeks. The composition of the new government will be a key indicator of the RSP’s priorities and its ability to govern effectively.

Once a government is formed, the focus will shift to implementing the RSP’s economic policies. Key priorities are likely to include attracting foreign investment, promoting entrepreneurship, and tackling corruption. The government will also need to address Nepal’s infrastructure deficits and improve its business environment. The success of these efforts will be crucial in determining Nepal’s economic future. The RSP’s ability to deliver on its promises will be closely watched by investors and the Nepali public alike.