Kathmandu, Nepal – In a stunning political upset, Balendra Shah, a former rapper and the prime ministerial candidate of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has defeated former Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli of the Communist Party of Nepal–Unified Marxist-Leninist (CPN-UML). The results, announced Sunday, March 8, 2026, mark a historic shift in Nepali politics, signaling a rejection of established political forces by a younger generation of voters. This election is the first parliamentary election in Nepal since widespread protests led by Gen Z ousted long-ruling leaders in 2025.
The RSP, formed just four years ago, has quickly risen to prominence, capitalizing on widespread discontent with corruption and political stagnation. As of Sunday morning, the Election Commission of Nepal reported that the party had secured 103 of the 165 directly elected seats in the House of Representatives, and was leading in another 21 constituencies. Other parties and independent candidates have collectively won only 27 seats so far, with final results expected later this week. The RSP also holds a commanding lead in the proportional representation system, securing approximately 51% of the 110 seats allocated through that method.
This landslide victory unseats the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML, the two parties that have dominated Nepali politics for decades. Local media outlets have hailed the outcome as a watershed moment. The Himalayan Times declared “RSP set for a landslide victory,” while Annapurna Post characterized the results as a “People’s ballot revolt; shift in political paradigm.”
The Rise of the Rastriya Swatantra Party
Balendra Shah, the RSP’s prime ministerial candidate, first gained prominence as the mayor of Kathmandu in 2022. He emerged as a key figure during the 2025 protests against the government of then-Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli, which were sparked by a controversial social media ban. These protests quickly escalated into a broader movement against corruption and poor governance, resulting in dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries when protesters clashed with police and attacked government buildings.
Nepal’s electoral system involves two ballot papers: one for directly elected representatives and another for a preferred political party. The RSP’s strong performance on both ballots indicates a widespread desire for change among Nepali voters. To form a government, the party needs the support of at least half of the 275 members of the House of Representatives.
A Celebration Tempered by Remembrance
Supporters of the RSP have been celebrating across the country, offering winning candidates flower garlands, scarves, and applying sindur (red vermilion powder) as a sign of respect and victory. However, party officials have urged restraint, requesting that candidates and supporters refrain from large-scale rallies or public celebrations out of respect for those who lost their lives during last year’s protests.
What’s Next for Nepal?
The RSP’s victory represents a significant moment for Nepal, potentially ushering in a new era of political accountability and reform. The party’s platform focuses on tackling corruption, improving governance, and addressing the concerns of young voters. The coming weeks will be crucial as the RSP works to secure the necessary support to form a government and implement its agenda. The final tally of seats and the formation of potential coalitions will determine the path forward for the Himalayan nation.
As Nepal navigates this political transition, the international community will be watching closely to witness how the new government addresses the challenges facing the country and fulfills the promises made to its citizens.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical or political advice.
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