Balen Shah urges patience, backs former Chief Justice Sushila Karki to lead Nepal’s interim government amid ongoing political unrest
Balen’s Calm Amid Chaos
As Nepal navigates a historic political upheaval following the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Kathmandu Mayor Balendra ‘Balen’ Shah has issued a message of caution and unity to the country’s youth-led movement.
In a heartfelt social media post, Balen addressed “Gen Z and all Nepalese,” urging them to stay calm and trust the transition process toward a stable government.
Key Highlights of Balen’s Message
- “Please don’t panic… be patient,” he wrote.
- Emphasized that an interim government is on the way, whose main role is to facilitate fresh elections.
- Urged young leaders not to rush into power: “Your passion and integrity are needed permanently, not temporarily.”
- Endorsed former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as the right choice to lead the interim administration.
- Called on the President of Nepal to dissolve Parliament immediately and preserve the spirit of the “Gen-Z revolution”.
Why Balen Supports Sushila Karki
Mayor Balen’s endorsement of Sushila Karki — Nepal’s first female Chief Justice — comes amid internal divisions within the protest movement over who should lead next.
“I wholeheartedly respect your unity and maturity in backing her. It shows how capable you all are,” Balen wrote, referring to the young protesters.
Backdrop: Gen Z Protests and Oli’s Resignation
- The Gen Z-led anti-corruption protests triggered a nationwide political crisis.
- Over 30 protesters died, with more than 500 injured in clashes with security forces.
- Government buildings were torched, politicians attacked, and public anger surged over corruption and economic stagnation.
- Under pressure, PM KP Sharma Oli resigned, and the Army imposed emergency restrictions to prevent further violence.
What’s Next for Nepal?
As the country waits for a new interim government, the challenge now lies in:
- Maintaining peace under Army oversight
- Ensuring a transparent electoral process
- Avoiding internal splits in the protest movement
Balen Shah’s voice of reason arrives at a pivotal moment in Nepal’s democratic journey. As the nation stands on the edge of political rebirth, his appeal for patience and unity may be just what’s needed to turn this revolution into lasting reform.
Also Read : Kul Man Ghising Likely to Become Nepal’s Interim PM After Protests Oust KP Oli
