The recent friction between Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah (Balen) and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has escalated to a point where it is impacting public events in Kathmandu. One significant instance of this tension occurred during the Indra Jatra festival at Kathmandu Durbar Square. Mayor Balen was conspicuously absent from the festival, and his supporters were allegedly barred from entering the event. These supporters, wearing identical T-shirts printed at the same press and bearing images of Balen, were seen as an organized group. Their coordinated presence and rhetoric raise questions about whether they were officially sponsored or aligned with Balen's political agenda.

Today's celebration of Constitution Day further highlights this tension. Despite the government organizing a grand concert and formal ceremony at Tundikhel—an event within the jurisdiction of Kathmandu Metropolitan City—Balen has not been involved in any capacity. Moreover, he has refrained from issuing any message on the occasion, prompting speculation about his stance on the Constitution. His silence contrasts sharply with the government’s emphasis on national unity and democratic values, leading to a deeper questioning of his political orientation.

Balen’s absence from both these events, particularly his lack of participation in Constitution Day celebrations, raises critical questions. Is he opposed to the Constitution, or does he support it? There is also a growing debate about whether Balen aligns with the republican ethos of Nepal or whether his actions indicate subtle support for a monarchist resurgence. His actions are often ambiguous, leaving political analysts wondering about his long-term agenda.

As a leader with aspirations to form a political party in the future, Balen needs to clarify his political views. His campaigns often resemble those of international non-governmental organizations, with neatly dressed supporters holding Western-style protest signs. While his rap music, which contributed to his popularity, carries Western influences, his style of dress remains distinctly unique. However, these cultural elements bring into question the authenticity of his alignment with Nepal’s traditional values.

The lack of clarity on Balen’s political stance and his detachment from key national events not only reflect his ongoing friction with the central government but also cast doubt on his leadership trajectory. If he wishes to establish himself as a national leader, these ambiguities may hinder his credibility in the long run.

Balendra Shah