Balen Shah Boosts Rastriya Swatantra Party to Early Lead in Parliamentary Elections

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has taken an early lead in the ongoing parliamentary vote count, thanks to the popularity of its prime ministerial candidate, Balen Shah.

Despite facing setbacks in recent months due to controversies surrounding its leadership, the party’s fortunes changed dramatically after Shah, the well-known mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, joined its ranks. His entry has energized voters nationwide, bringing a surge of support for the party.

Preliminary results from the House of Representatives election on March 51 show RSP leading in 46 constituencies. In contrast, the Nepali Congress leads in five constituencies, the Communist Party of Nepal (UML) in four, the Nepali Communist Party in three, and the Rastriya Prajatantra Party in one. Other parties are ahead in only one constituency so far.

The RSP had declared before the elections that Balen Shah would head the next government if the party achieved a majority. This announcement has further motivated Nepalis both at home and abroad to rally behind the party.

The early trend indicates a significant shift in Nepal’s political landscape, with the RSP challenging traditional parties and gaining momentum as votes continue to be counted.