Nepal's Incoming Prime Minister Balendra Shah Delivers Unity Message Through Rap
Balendra Shah, the 35-year-old rapper-turned-politician poised to become Nepal's next prime minister, has issued his first post-election message in the form of a rap song urging national unity. The sharply dressed leader, commonly known as Balen, released the track just hours after being sworn in as a newly elected member of the House of Representatives at the federal parliament in Kathmandu on Thursday.
Youth-Driven Political Change Symbolized Through Music
Shah, who typically sports dark sunglasses and represents a new generation of political leadership, rapped in Nepali: "The strength of unity is my national power" and "Undivided Nepali, this time, history is being made." The song quickly garnered tens of thousands of views across social media platforms and streaming sites within minutes of its release, demonstrating his significant cultural influence.
This musical message marks Shah's first public communication since his Rastriya Swatantra party achieved a landslide victory in the 5 March election. These were the first national polls held since September 2025, when a deadly youth-led uprising resulted in the toppling of the previous government. The anti-corruption protests, which began over a temporary social media ban but reflected deeper economic frustrations, claimed at least 77 lives according to official reports.
Campaign Energy Translated Into Musical Inspiration
In his rap lyrics, Shah declared: "My heart is full of courage, my red blood is boiling; my brothers stand with me, this time we will rise. May my breath not run out, I will run like a leopard." The song features video footage from his election campaign, visually connecting his political journey with his artistic expression. The 35-year-old leader is scheduled to officially assume the role of prime minister on Friday, becoming the Himalayan republic's youngest head of government in recent history.
Transition of Power Between Generations
Shortly after Shah's rap release, outgoing interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki delivered a televised farewell address to the nation. The 73-year-old former chief justice, who had led the caretaker administration for six months following the uprising, expressed confidence in the younger generation's leadership capabilities.
Karki stated: "I am confident that the new government to be formed under the leadership of the youth will work towards ending corruption in the country, establishing good governance, creating jobs within the country, economic development and social justice." She added: "I am looking forward to the bright future of this country with full confidence – where our unity, honesty and the hard work of every citizen will write a new history."
Unresolved Issues From Previous Administration
During her tenure, Karki had ordered an investigation into the violent crackdown on protesters that occurred during the initial days of the September 2025 uprising. At least 19 young people were killed during the first day of demonstrations, though no convictions have been secured in relation to these deaths. In her final statement, Karki confirmed that a report containing the investigation's findings would be released, though she provided no specific details about its contents or publication timeline.
Balendra Shah's ascent to power represents a significant shift in Nepali politics, blending cultural influence with political leadership. His use of rap music as a medium for political messaging underscores his unique approach to governance and connection with younger voters who have traditionally felt disconnected from established political institutions.
