
New Delhi, March 19: The rising influence of Gen Z in Nepal has sparked a historic shift in the nation’s political scene. Recent election results have defied all expectations, with Balendra Shah’s popularity and his party, the National Independent Party (RSP), securing nearly a two-thirds majority, altering the political landscape.
Since the establishment of democracy in 2008, traditional parties such as the Nepali Congress, the Nepal Communist Party (Maoist Centre), and the Nepal Communist Party (UML) have dominated Nepal’s politics. Key figures in these parties include Sher Bahadur Deuba, Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda), and K.P. Sharma Oli.
Balendra Shah, known as Balen, is an engineer and rapper who entered politics by winning the Kathmandu mayoral election as an independent candidate in 2022. Despite having only three years of experience and no backing from a political family or strong party, he has made history as a candidate for Prime Minister and is on track to become the youngest Prime Minister.
The report indicates that this mandate, in a country marked by ethnic, regional, and religious divisions, suggests that issue-based politics can unite the populace.
Historically, no party in Nepal has achieved a clear majority, leading to political instability due to coalition governments. However, this recent mandate appears to break that tradition.
According to the report, the opposition will now be compelled to play its role as a minority, potentially ending the need for compromise in government formation.
This transformation in Nepal is drawing attention across South Asia. Countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have already witnessed political changes, while Pakistan and the Maldives may soon experience similar political waves.


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