In a significant shift in Nepal's political landscape, Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) Mayor Balendra “Balen” Shah is reportedly preparing to lead Desh Bikash Party after his negotiations with Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane failed to strike chords.
The decision comes following a marathon meeting on Monday night at the residence of RSP leader Asim Shah. Despite initial hopes for a "pleasant start," the talks failed to strike chords over disagreements on power-sharing. Sources close to the Mayor allege that Lamichhane’s proposal was dismissive, reportedly asking Balen to join RSP as a "general member" rather than as a top-tier partner.
Key points of contention
Balen’s side maintains that a commitment to name him the Prime Ministerial candidate for the upcoming elections is a "bottom line." Following the meeting, Balen reportedly expressed concerns about the risks of a directly elected executive system, citing geopolitical sensitivities. Balen’s team accused Lamichhane of "changing his tune" after the RSP President told media in Chitwan that the two had not yet discussed the Prime Ministerial candidacy.
"If the power-sharing is respectful, we could work with RSP. Otherwise, a new course has begun," Balen told close associates during a nine-hour-long meeting in Jwagal on Wednesday. "The Prime Ministerial candidacy is our bottom line."
Rise of Desh Bikash Party
Balen, who won the elections as the KMC mayor using the stick election symbol, is now aligning with Desh Bikash Party, formerly known as Hamro Nepali Party, which currently holds the same symbol. The party is led by Anantaram Ghimire, who has expressed readiness to welcome the Mayor into a leadership role.
On Wednesday, Balen engaged in extensive consultations with over 100 influential figures, including Dr Bhagawan Koirala, Binod Chaudhary, and Gyanendra Shahi, to discuss a broader alliance.
While supporters still hope for a reconciliation between the two "alternative" forces, Balen has already begun preparing a list of proportional representation candidates under his own banner.
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