35-year-old Nepali musician sworn in as prime minister

Shah

Nepal’s rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah was sworn in as prime minister on Friday after sweeping the first election since deadly anti-corruption protests toppled the government last year.

The 35-year-old reformist and his Rastriya Swatantra Party dominated polls this month on a platform of youth-driven political change.

“I, Balendra Shah, in the name of the country and people, pledge that I will be loyal to the constitution,” Shah said, dressed all in black, including his trademark dark sunglasses.

Crowds at the ceremony cheered and chanted his name after he formally took office. Punch