PM Modi congratulates Nepal Government, people for successful polls Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to the people and government of Nepal for conducting the country’s general elections successfully, calling the milestone a proud moment in Nepal’s democratic journey. Modi highlighted the peaceful nature of the polls and praised the citizens for exercising their democratic rights, emphasizing India’s unwavering support for Nepal’s progress. The elections, held amid domestic challenges and regional geopolitical dynamics, marked Nepal’s first general elections since the violent Gen Z protests of the previous year. The results indicated a significant shift in political power, with rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah’s Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) emerging as a dominant force. The RSP, formed in 2022 by Ravi Lamichhane, secured 39 of the 50 seats declared so far, including a complete sweep in 10 constituencies of Kathmandu district. The party is also leading in 80 other constituencies, according to the Election Commission of Nepal. Shah, projected as the party’s Prime Ministerial candidate, launched its first election campaign in Janakpur, Madhesh, signaling a new phase in Nepal’s political landscape. The RSP’s rise challenges the traditional dominance of established political parties, reflecting a growing public appetite for change. Modi’s remarks underscored India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nepal, framing the elections as an opportunity to deepen cooperation in areas such as peace, prosperity, and regional stability. The outcome of the polls is expected to reshape Nepal’s political direction, with the RSP’s success highlighting the influence of younger generations in reshaping the nation’s governance.#rastriya_swatantra_party #balendra_shah #prime_minister_narendra_modi #nepal_government #election_commission_of_nepal
Tale Of Two Protests: How Balen Shah Trumped In Nepal, But Bangladesh's Students' Party Failed The protests in Bangladesh and Nepal, two nations separated by the narrow Siliguri corridor, shared a common objective: dismantling the existing political system. However, the outcomes diverged sharply, with Nepal witnessing a surge in support for an outsider while Bangladesh’s student-led movement failed to translate its revolutionary energy into electoral success. In Nepal, rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah’s Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is poised for a sweeping victory in the country’s first general elections since the Gen Z-led protests. This marks a significant shift, as established political parties have been sidelined. Shah, 35, rose to prominence through his music critiquing social and political corruption, and his campaign has resonated with young voters. His refusal to take the prime minister’s post during the protests further solidified his image as an authentic alternative to traditional politicians. In contrast, Bangladesh’s student movement, which ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024, struggled to create a viable political force. The newly formed National Citizen Party (NCP), led by student activists, failed to gain traction in the subsequent elections. Instead, the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman—son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia—reclaimed power. Rahman, who had spent 17 years in political exile, positioned himself as a reformer with a clear vision for the country, despite his ties to the old regime. The differences in outcomes stemmed from the nature of the movements. Bangladesh’s protests were driven by organized groups like Jamaat-e-Islami’s Chhatra Shibir, which had clear political goals.#rastriya_swatantra_party #balendra_shah #sheikh_hasina #bangladesh_nationalist_party #tarique_rahman
