NEW DELHI, May 28: Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, continues to maintain a distant public and political profile even after assuming office, sparking debate over his leadership style and democratic accountability.
During the run-up to Nepal’s March 5 election, Shah, the Rastriya Swatantra Party’s prime ministerial candidate, remained largely inaccessible even in his own constituency of Jhapa-5. Despite this, thousands of supporters gathered voluntarily to campaign for the engineer-turned-rapper and social media personality, whose popularity had already propelled him to victory as Kathmandu’s first independent mayor. Shah later resigned from the mayoral post to contest against former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli in Jhapa-5, defeating him convincingly.
Known for his reserved nature, Shah’s campaign appearances were often brief and unpredictable. He frequently drove himself in an SUV, avoided prolonged media interactions, and limited public engagement to selfies, hand gestures and short remarks. On one occasion, he reportedly objected when journalists attempted to closely film his vehicle during the campaign.
Nearly two months after becoming Prime Minister, Shah has still not publicly addressed Parliament, triggering criticism from opposition parties and lawmakers. Reports say he has continued to work from the Prime Minister’s Office in Singha Durbar but has declined repeated calls to appear in the House. When Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal recently urged him to attend Parliament, Shah reportedly said he would do so at an “appropriate time”.
His absence has fuelled accusations that he is avoiding democratic scrutiny. Opposition leaders argue that regular parliamentary interaction is a core responsibility of the Prime Minister and point out that question-and-answer sessions with lawmakers are a long-standing parliamentary practice. Criticism intensified after Shah reportedly walked out midway through President Ram Chandra Poudel’s presentation of the government’s policy programme.
Reports that Shah declined meetings with India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and US special envoy Sergio Gor have further added to concerns over his leadership approach.
However, government allies have defended Shah, saying ministers can respond on behalf of the Prime Minister and accusing the opposition of attempting to destabilise the new administration prematurely.
Supporters believe Shah’s strong public image and anti-establishment appeal remain intact for now. Analysts say his long-term popularity will depend on whether he can deliver on promises while balancing his unconventional style with the demands of democratic governance. (IANS)
