Kathmandu: Balendra “Balen” Shah, the 35-year-old mayor of Kathmandu, has emerged as a prominent figure in Nepal’s political scene after being backed by thousands of Gen Z protesters calling for him to become the country’s next prime minister.
A civil engineer by training and a rapper by passion, Balen Shah entered politics as an independent candidate and won the mayoral post of Kathmandu in 2022.
Since then, he has earned a reputation for his anti-corruption stance, bold decisions, and direct communication with citizens through social media platforms.
His popularity has surged in recent weeks after widespread youth-led protests forced the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
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Driven largely by young Nepalis frustrated with unemployment, corruption, and restrictions on online freedoms, have turned Balen Shah into a symbol of generational change.
Supporters describe him as a leader who represents honesty and fresh ideas. Many young protesters rallied online with messages such as, “Dear Balen, the time is now. Please step forward and take lead. Whole Nepal is with you.”
While constitutional rules require a prime minister to be chosen from parliament, Shah’s rise highlights the growing influence of Nepal’s youth in shaping the country’s political future.
His leadership style, blending reformist ideas with grassroots appeal, has positioned him as a face of change for a new generation.
