Balendra Shah Nominated Nepal Prime Ministerial Candidate Ahead of March Elections

Balendra Shah was named the prime ministerial candidate for Nepal on December 28 in Kathmandu. He will run in the March 5 elections under the Rastriya Swatantra Party. The deal was made after long talks between his team and party leaders. It sets him as the main face of the campaign.

The move matters because it joins two growing youth-led forces. It also comes after months of unrest across Nepal. According to Reuters, the agreement followed all-night talks. Both sides say the decision reflects rising public anger over corruption and weak governance.

Balendra Shah Gains Key Role in Nepal’s Election Push

The agreement has seven points. It makes Shah the parliamentary party leader. It keeps Rabi Lamichhane as party chair. Each side said this structure will help keep order as the campaign begins.

Shah will run under the party’s symbol, the Bell. The election commission already lists the symbol. His group will merge with the party. This means its name and flag stay the same.

The two camps say the deal also supports young protesters. These groups led major rallies earlier this year. Many took part in the September movement that helped bring down the former government. Party leaders say they will speak to injured protesters and work to address their demands.

Political observers told AP that the deal marks a shift in Nepal’s politics. They say it shows a rise in new leaders backed by Gen Z voters. Many young people now expect Shah to lead a broader reform wave.

The Ujyalo Nepal Party is still in talks. Its head, Kulman Ghising, has met Shah many times. His final decision may shape the next phase of the campaign. Senior party members from both sides attended the signing ceremony in Kathmandu.

What Shah’s Nomination Means for Nepal’s Political Future

The nomination could reshape Nepal’s politics ahead of the March vote. The new alliance hopes to unite voters tired of old party rivalries. If more youth groups join, it may become a strong force in parliament.

Analysts say the move could pressure older parties to rethink their plans. Many citizens want better services and cleaner leadership. Shah built his public image as mayor by acting fast on city issues. Supporters now hope he will bring that same pace to national politics.

Still, the road is not simple. Nepal faces economic stress and slow growth. Any new leader must deal with debt, jobs and rebuilding public trust. Shah’s team says it is ready for the work. The coming weeks will show how the public reacts.

The rise of Balendra Shah adds new energy to Nepal’s election season. Many now watch to see how the main keyword, Balendra Shah, will shape the national race.

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Q1: Who is Balendra Shah?

He is the mayor of Kathmandu and now the prime ministerial candidate. He is known for youth support and anti-corruption work.

Q2: Why was he nominated?

He was chosen after talks with the RSP. Both sides agreed he could lead a unified youth-focused campaign.

Q3: When are Nepal’s elections?

The elections will take place on March 5. Parties have started early planning and alliance talks.

Q4: What does the agreement include?

It makes Shah the party’s parliamentary leader. It keeps Lamichhane as chair and keeps the Bell as the symbol.

Q5: Will more parties join?

The Ujyalo Nepal Party is still talking with Shah. Its decision may change the shape of the alliance.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, AP News, BBC News