Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah Faces Criticism for Elusiveness

In the lead-up to Nepal’s March 5 election, Balendra Shah, the Rastriya Swatantra Party’s (RSP) Prime Ministerial candidate, remained elusive to his followers, even in his own constituency of Jhapa-5. Despite assuming office, his accessibility has not improved. Shah’s movements were often undisclosed, with limited public interactions mainly involving driving around, taking selfies, and brief engagements.
Shah, known as Balen, previously elected as Kathmandu’s Mayor as an independent candidate, later contested and won against former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli in Jhapa-5 on RSP’s invitation. Described as a private and reclusive individual, Shah’s absence from public appearances has raised concerns among lawmakers, sparking debates and Opposition protests.
Lawmakers have criticized Shah for not addressing the Parliament since taking office in late March 2026. Despite reportedly visiting the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Shah has not made a public appearance in the Parliament, leading to accusations of evading democratic accountability.