From rapper to prime minister: Balendra Shah takes oath in Nepal

Balendra Shah has made history by transitioning from a rapper to politics. He has now formally taken oath as the 47th Prime Minister of Nepal.

He was administered the oath by President Ramchandra Paudel at a ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Kathmandu on Friday. Diplomats and high-ranking officials were present at the event.

Shah's appearance at the ceremony was also somewhat unconventional—he wore a jacket and trousers, a traditional black Nepali cap and sunglasses, reflecting his distinctive personality.

The 35-year-old leader previously served as Mayor of Kathmandu. He is now Nepal's youngest prime minister in recent decades and the first from the Madhesi community to hold the office.

His party, Rashtriya Swatantra Party (RSP), won an absolute majority in the 275-seat parliament in the March 5 election, securing 182 seats.

Shah now faces significant challenges—stabilising the country amid political instability, curbing corruption, and creating new employment opportunities. Tackling youth unemployment and the long-standing economic crisis are seen as key priorities for his government.

Analysts note that the public will expect swift and visible results from the new administration. Taking effective and concrete steps soon after assuming office will be critical for Balendra Shah.