Rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah has been sworn in as Nepal's prime minister after a landslide victory in the country's first election since last year's youth-led protests.
The 35-year-old's rise marks an important shift in Nepali politics. His promise of change resonated with an electorate that was angry at corruption, nepotism and elite rule.
Before taking office on Friday, Shah, popularly known as Balen, released a song filled with optimism about Nepal's future. Undivided Nepali, this time history is being made, he rapped in a track that garnered more than two million views within hours of its release. The song harks back to his roots in the underground rap scene, where he used music to call out corruption and other social problems in Nepal.
After just three years as mayor of the capital Kathmandu, Shah teamed up with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) as its prime-ministerial candidate, scoring a decisive victory in general elections this month. His supporters see him as a symbol of change and a break from the failings of Nepal's old guard. But some question whether the four-year-old RSP is capable of making good on its bold pledges.
The Rebellious Rapper
Shah was born in 1990 in Naradevi, Kathmandu. His father is an Ayurvedic practitioner and his mother stayed at home to raise the family. After leaving school he graduated with engineering degrees in Kathmandu and in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. He shot to fame in 2013 after winning a popular rap battle in Nepal, showcasing the frustrations of a generation that felt suppressed.
His music often criticized social inequality and corruption in Nepal, leading to several popular tracks. His song Balidan gained immense popularity, highlighting governmental failures while resonating with many Cambodians who shared similar sentiments.
The Rise to Power
Shah's message resonated during last September's protests, where many of his songs became anthems for protesters advocating against corruption and economic stagnation.
As a campaigner, Shah focused on social media to communicate his anti-corruption agenda, judiciary reforms, and plans for job creation. The RSP's victory shattered long-held political structures, demonstrating a significant desire for change among the populace.
Controversy and Challenges
Despite his popularity and a strong electoral mandate, Shah’s tenure is beginning amid a backdrop of controversy. During his time as mayor, he faced criticism for heavy-handed tactics against street vendors and other community members. Rights groups expressed concerns about his methods, especially in the context of ensuring public order while maintaining civil liberties.
Furthermore, Shah has sparked debate online with previous controversial social media posts, including one that mentioned multiple countries and political parties in a derogatory manner. Voters maintain high expectations from the newly elected government, while there are pressing issues regarding job creation, economic development, and a call for accountability from the former regime.
