Balendra Shah Set To Take Oath As Nepal Prime Minister On Friday; Full Story Here

Nepal is set for a political shift as Balendra Shah is chosen as RSP’s parliamentary leader, paving the way for his swearing-in as Prime Minister in Kathmandu on Friday.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht

Updated : 26 March 2026, 7:59 PM IST

Balendra Shah prepares to take oath on Friday

Kathmandu: Nepal is set to have a new Prime Minister, as Balendra Shah prepares to take oath on Friday following his unanimous selection as the parliamentary party leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP).

The decision was taken during a Central Committee meeting held at the party’s office in Kathmandu on Thursday evening, where senior leaders endorsed Shah’s leadership without dissent.

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Oath Ceremony Scheduled at President’s Office

Shah is expected to be sworn in at the President’s Office in a formal ceremony presided over by Ram Chandra Paudel. The development follows party rules that mandate only the parliamentary party leader can assume the role of Prime Minister.

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Shah, a former mayor of Kathmandu, is known for his unconventional background as a structural engineer and rapper before entering politics. His rise within the party has been rapid, reflecting growing support among party members and lawmakers.

Internal Party Agreement Shapes Leadership

The move aligns with a prior agreement between RSP chief Rabi Lamichhane and Shah, reached in December. Under this understanding, Shah was to be projected as the party’s prime ministerial face following parliamentary backing.

Rabi Lamichhane, a former television presenter and ex-home minister, will continue to serve as the party’s central chairperson, while Shah takes on legislative leadership.

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Majority Support in Parliament

According to party sources, Shah’s appointment has the backing of RSP’s 182 members in the House, ensuring a smooth transition into office. The unanimous support reflects internal unity within the party at a crucial political juncture.

Political Transition Underway

With Shah’s swearing-in imminent, Nepal is entering a new phase of governance led by a relatively young and non-traditional political figure. Observers say the transition could signal a shift in the country’s political dynamics, especially with emerging leaders taking centre stage.