Balendra Shah sworn in as prime minister of Nepal

Former rapper and Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah has been sworn in as the youngest prime minister of Nepal in decades. The 35-year-old leader took office following his Rastriya Swatantra Party's victory in the March 5 parliamentary elections, where they secured 182 out of 275 seats. This electoral cycle followed widespread anti-corruption protests led by Generation Z in September, which resulted in 76 fatalities. Shah holds historical significance as the first Madhesi politician to lead the nation, representing the southern plains bordering India. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace in the presence of government officials and diplomats, accompanied by traditional Hindu and Buddhist rituals. Immediately upon taking office, Shah appointed a 14-member cabinet to fulfill his campaign commitment to a streamlined government. He now faces the task of addressing political instability and creating employment opportunities in Nepal. Analysts emphasize that his immediate priority is the efficient delivery of public services to the population.