Narayan Upadhyay

The new government’s 100-day reform plan promises ambitious legal, digital, and anti-corruption initiatives, but its success hinges on enforcement, bureaucratic capacity, and public trust.

Riding a wave of public frustration and hope, the RSP now faces the difficult task of turning its sweeping mandate into credible, transparent governance amid high expectations and limited capacity.

Balen Shah’s rise from mayor to prime minister marks a historic opportunity, but he faces immediate tests in governance, anti-corruption, party unity, provincial powers, and foreign policy, with public expectations high and little margin for error.

Balen Shah’s entry into national politics propels the Rastriya Swatantra Party ahead, as low voter turnout punishes traditional parties and signals Nepalis’ appetite for change.

When the new government takes the helm, it must first thank her and her team. 

This is not just another routine election; it has posed a stronger test for political parties, leaders, and the system itself.

The Gen Z protests on September 8 and 9, 2025, brought these doubts back.

If leaders of both sides keep treating this as a fight for authority, the Nepali Congress will head into the March 5 election divided. Both sides will suffer an unfavorable poll outcome, which will shape the future of Nepal’s oldest democratic party.

Balen–Rabi unity has injected fresh energy into the RSP, but it comes with serious political risks. Charisma alone may not offset internal rifts, legal controversies, and the challenge of winning nationwide support.  

His real power, though, is in the central committee. About 227 of the 301 members of the new central committee are on his side.