Balen Shah plans new party, consults influencers

KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah has intensified his political activities with the aim of ushering in a new force in national politics. Shah, who is in the process of forming a new political party, held both collective and individual consultations on Wednesday in Lalitpur with more than 30 influential figures from various sectors.

The day-long “confidential” meeting took place at the residence of his close aide Kumar Ben in Lalitpur. It saw a strong presence of professionals, politicians, former bureaucrats, artists, and media entrepreneurs. Senior cardiologist Dr. Bhagwan Koirala, Rastirya Prajatantra Party spokesperson Gyanendra Shahi, and Janamat Party Chair Dr. CK Raut were among the political leaders who participated.

Former Secretary Bhim Upadhyaya, former Vice-Chair of Bibeksheel Sajha Milan Pandey, and activists Sagar Dhakal, Rakshya Bam, and KP Khanal also held separate discussions with Shah.

Political advisor to the Mayor, Sunil Lamsal, was present during the consultations, alongside prominent figures from the arts and media such as artist Nischal Basnet, Kantipur Media Group Managing Director Sambhav Sirohiya, journalist Suraj Singh Thakuri, and Rishi Dhamala, all of whom were asked for guidance regarding Shah’s future political path.

According to participants, Shah is preparing to establish a new political force ahead of the upcoming elections. “Judging by the style of the meetings, it’s clear that he intends to contest in the elections,” a source said. “He consulted potential team members and supporters to gauge their willingness to back him.”

Shah reportedly asked all participants a single question during the discussions: “If I move forward by announcing a new party, will I have your support?” Most participants responded positively.

“Lauro” Symbol and “Desh Bikash Party”

Shah’s secretariat has previously registered the “Desh Bikash Party” with the Election Commission. Originally under the name of Anantaraj Ghimire, the party is now managed by Shah’s close associates. Its election symbol is the “Lauro”. Shah intends to give this symbol, previously used for independent election victories, an official party identity.

During the consultations, Shah also briefed participants about a seven-hour-long meeting held with Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane on Monday. Although rumors circulated that Lamichhane had proposed Shah as a prime ministerial candidate, Shah clarified that no “concrete” agreement emerged from the meeting. “There was a proposal for cooperation from Rabi, but no detailed plan. At this stage, merging with RSP does not seem viable, so Shah is determined to move forward independently,” a participant quoted Shah as saying.

RSP President Lamichhane also confirmed that discussions with Shah are still at an initial stage, with consultations ongoing with other political forces as well.

Shah’s recent flurry of activity, following his tenure as Kathmandu Mayor, signals the potential emergence of a new political equation in Nepal, further strengthening his position as a national political figure.