KATHMANDU: TIME magazine has included Prime Minister Balendra Shah in its list of the 100 most influential people for 2026.
The publication describes the 35-year-old leader as a former hip-hop artist who rose to become Nepal’s youngest prime minister, emphasizing his unconventional journey and presenting him as a symbol of a new political wave in South Asia.
According to TIME, Shah’s ascent has been driven largely by strong backing from younger generations and increasing public frustration with established political parties and traditional political systems.
Highlighting his earlier role as mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, the magazine points to his initiatives in waste management, education, and healthcare. It also notes the high expectations among Nepali citizens for effective leadership following his appointment as prime minister.
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