News|ElectionsEx-rapper Balendra Shah sweeps to power in Nepal landslide election victoryRastriya Swatantra Party, founded just four years ago, set to dominate new parliament with near two-thirds majority.
The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), led by Balendra Shah, has achieved a significant victory in Nepal's parliamentary elections, securing a majority in the lower house. Shah, a former civil engineer and hip-hop artist, led his party to win 182 seats out…
The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), led by Balendra Shah, has achieved a significant victory in Nepal's parliamentary elections, securing a majority in the lower house. Shah, a former civil engineer and hip-hop artist, led his party to win 182 seats out of 275, with 125 seats obtained directly and 57 through proportional representation, according to the Election Commission on Thu, Mar 8, 2026.
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP): 182 seats Nepali Congress: 38 seats Marxist Party: 25 seats
Shah defeated Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, a former four-time Prime Minister, in his constituency. Oli, acknowledging the shift in power, congratulated Shah on a social media platform, expressing hopes for a "smooth and successful" term.
Oli, acknowledging the shift in power, congratulated Shah on a social media platform, expressing hopes for a "smooth and successful" term.
Shah's ascent reflects a generational change in Nepalese politics, where a significant portion of the population is under 35. The 2025 protests, triggered by a social media ban and fueled by concerns over corruption and economic stagnation, played a crucial role in reshaping the political landscape. Shah, who previously served as Kathmandu's first independent mayor, emerged as a prominent figure during the unrest.
The RSP's campaign was notably supported by the Nepali diaspora, particularly in the United States. The party's organized approach contributed to its electoral success, indicating a shift in political dynamics.
Under Nepal's constitutional process, parties must submit names for proportionally allocated seats before the parliament convenes. The selection of a new prime minister, requiring support from at least half of the parliament members, is anticipated in the coming days.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
