Nepal Welcomes New Prime Minister Balendra Shah with Enthusiasm
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Key Takeaways
Kathmandu, March 27 (NationPress) In a significant political development, Nepal's foremost political figures extended their heartfelt congratulations to the newly-appointed Prime Minister, Balendra Shah, expressing their hopes for his successful leadership as the head of this Himalayan nation.
Former Prime Minister Sushila Karki conveyed her best wishes for Shah in fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him by the electorate and his party.
In a Facebook message, Karki, who previously held the premiership before Shah, expressed her delight in witnessing a 35-year-old Prime Minister succeed her.
Shah emerged as a leading candidate for the interim government after the Gen-Z movement in September of the previous year, during which he had supported Karki's leadership.
Following the parliamentary elections on March 5, Shah has been inaugurated as the country’s 47th Prime Minister, marking a new era with a fresh generation of leaders stepping into significant political roles. He was sworn in on Friday, initiating a new chapter for Nepal under innovative leadership. Shah has also assembled a 15-member Cabinet.
Former Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli also took to Facebook to commend Shah and his Cabinet members, wishing them success in their new roles. Shah triumphed over Oli in the recent parliamentary elections for the Jhapa-5 constituency in eastern Nepal. Their relationship had been contentious during Oli's time as Prime Minister while Shah served as the Mayor of Kathmandu.
Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa also expressed his congratulations to Shah and his team, promising that his party would offer constructive support to the new government in its endeavors towards national development, citizens’ rights, and effective governance.
Thapa faced defeat from candidates of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which achieved nearly a two-thirds majority in the recent elections.
Upon taking office, newly appointed Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle emphasized that the new administration recognizes the mandate given by the people, who have shown strong support for the RSP, reflecting dissatisfaction with established political parties. “The electorate has empowered us to take action, and we are dedicated to delivering results,” he stated.
He further mentioned the government’s intention to eliminate obstacles to economic development, including the repeal of up to 15 laws. The RSP has committed to fostering good governance and economic progress in its electoral manifesto.