CHITWAN, Nepal (AP) — The gathering started small, with people arriving in small groups, but soon transformed into massive waves of supporters. Students in school uniforms weaved through the packed crowd. Senior citizens leaning on walking aids joined others who carried pictures of Balendra Shah high above their heads, waiting for hours to see him in person.
When the former rapper turned political candidate finally appeared at the public venue in Nepal’s Chitwan district, the crowd’s response was thunderous. Shah’s music blared from speakers while thousands of supporters shouted his name in unison. His appearance lasted just thirty minutes, with only about five minutes of speaking, before he departed.
These dramatic gatherings have become standard events during Shah’s campaign stops, as Nepal’s approximately 19 million eligible voters get ready for Thursday’s election — the nation’s first since a youth-driven movement ousted the former government one year ago. Those backing Shah, age 35, claim he should be considered the leading candidate.
“I have seen him on television and on my mobile phone, but I wanted to see him in real life,” said Tulasi Devi Shrestha, 75, who was present at Shah’s rally.
Shah’s political ascent in Nepal has been remarkably quick.
He disrupted the nation’s traditional political structure in 2022 when he secured victory in Kathmandu’s mayoral election, beating opponents from more conventional parties. He became a leading voice of opposition in 2025 during a youth-driven movement that brought down the government in this Himalayan country of roughly 30 million people.
With Nepal approaching these critical elections, numerous supporters think he has the potential to serve as the country’s next prime minister.
Shah’s National Independent Party is directly confronting the deeply established Nepali Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist), parties that have traded control for many years. While these traditional parties work to overcome widespread public dissatisfaction, Shah has gained traction with younger demographics seeking political transformation.
Shah has developed a reputation as an outsider candidate, competing against former prime minister Khadga Prasad Oli, who lost power during the recent uprising.
Opponents label him a populist figure and doubt his ability to effectively govern if elected. However, many of his followers see him as a necessary departure from Nepal’s established political leadership.
“In my whole life I have seen so many politicians come and go, but I love his energy and I am hopeful that he will bring some change,” said Shrestha.
