That is how many describe Balendra Shah, the current Mayor of Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city. Through his lyrics, he often took jabs at political parties and their leaders, resonating with young Nepalis disillusioned with mainstream politics. Against expectations, he trounced candidates from established political parties — a feat many summed up with the refrain: Balen beat the parties with the stick. It has, however, become apparent that the Gen Z protests hastened the process. Only days after the Gen Z protests, Balen had lashed out on Facebook using expletives against all political parties, including the RSP.

Source: The Hindu January 04, 2026 10:48 UTC