Nepal's Rastriya Swatantra Party Wins Majority, Balendra Shah Set to Become Prime Minister

Nepal's March 5 general election marked a significant political shift as the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), led by 35-year-old Balendra Shah, won 182 of 275 parliamentary seats, nearly a two-thirds majority. This outcome reflects widespread voter dissatisfaction with traditional parties, particularly the communists, who saw their representation drop sharply. Shah, a former mayor and rapper, symbolizes a generational change and a demand for accountability. The new government faces challenges in governance and balancing relations with India, China, and the US amid Nepal's evolving political landscape.