Nepal is experiencing a significant political crisis, following the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Public unrest, particularly among young people, has been widespread, from Kathmandu to other regions. The government’s actions, including restrictions on social media, have exacerbated tensions, leading to large-scale protests and demonstrations.
Protests escalated, including the storming of the parliament building and instances of violence. Amidst this turmoil, Oli announced his departure, raising the critical question of who will lead Nepal. Two prominent figures are emerging as potential successors: Balen Shah, the Mayor of Kathmandu, and Dr. Shekhar Koirala, a senior Nepali Congress leader. Their profiles offer a glimpse into the possible future leadership of the nation.
**Balen Shah: A Symbol of Youth**
Balen Shah, or Balen, has quickly become a prominent figure in Nepalese politics. As the Mayor of Kathmandu, he enjoys considerable popularity among the youth. Unlike traditional politicians, he connects with people as a youth leader.
His unique personality and style set him apart. He was recognized by Time Magazine as one of the Top 100 Global Personalities in 2023. His influence and work have also been covered by international media, including The New York Times. His strong social media presence allows him to spark nationwide discussions with a single post.
**From Rapper to Politician**
Shah’s journey includes a background in engineering and a successful career as a rapper before entering politics. He openly supported the youth during the current protests, leading many demonstrators to view him as a representative of a new political era, and to call for him to assume national leadership.
**Shekhar Koirala: A Contender for Power**
Dr. Shekhar Koirala, representing the Nepali Congress, is another key figure in the race for leadership. He serves on the party’s central working committee and is a Member of Parliament for the second federal parliament. He has a strong support base in the Morang district. Beyond politics, Koirala has a background in academia, having served as the Vice-Chancellor of the BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences.
Koirala’s standing within the party is demonstrated by his high vote count in the central working committee. He challenged Sher Bahadur Deuba for the presidency during the party’s 14th general convention, although he was unsuccessful. However, he has maintained a strong influence within the organization, particularly among younger members. His name is currently a leading contender for power within the Congress.