Balen Shah

Speaker DP Aryal proceeded with parliamentary business in the House of Representatives on Thursday despite ongoing protests and slogan chanting by opposition lawmakers demanding the presence of Prime Minister Balen Shah. Following a brief adjournment and discussions between Speaker Aryal and Prime Minister Shah, the session resumed with the Speaker moving forward with the agenda, including the presentation of an election-related ordinance by Minister Sobita Gautam, while opposition parties continued their obstruction.

Prime Minister Balen Shah held a joint meeting with ambassadors from 22 European Union member states in Kathmandu. The delegation, including ambassadors based in Kathmandu and New Delhi, aimed to congratulate the new government, reaffirm support for Nepal's development priorities, and explore new avenues for cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and climate action. Discussions also touched upon Nepal's human rights situation, political stability, and economic development.

The House of Representatives convened for a session that was delayed by 30 minutes, with opposition parties disrupting proceedings to protest the absence of Prime Minister Balen Shah. Lawmakers are demanding the Prime Minister's presence for a mandatory question and answer session, accusing him of ignoring parliamentary regulations. The session is expected to proceed with the endorsement of two bills and clause-wise deliberations on others.

President Ram Chandra Paudel will deliver the Republic Day address at Tundikhel on May 29, following a request from Prime Minister Balen Shah. Shah, who traditionally would have spoken as chair of the organizing committee, requested the President to take on the role after deciding not to speak himself. This decision comes amid criticism of Shah's absence from federal parliamentary proceedings.

Kathmandu Metropolitan City honored Guru Yagya Man Pati Bajracharya for his contributions to Charya dance, while a separate theatre production, 'Lucifer Rising,' was abruptly halted in Kathmandu due to alleged government pressure. Organizers of 'Lucifer Rising' cited pressure from political individuals and groups, fearing negative impact on Prime Minister Balen Shah's image.

Opposition parties in Nepal's House of Representatives have agreed to escalate their protests against Prime Minister Balen Shah, accusing him of ignoring parliament and failing to be accountable to lawmakers. A meeting of opposition chief whips concluded that demonstrations would intensify in the upcoming House session, demanding the Prime Minister's presence to answer questions. Concerns were also raised about the Speaker's perceived partisan role.

Nepal has been observing 19 years since the implementation of the Federal Democratic Republic system, established on Jestha 15, 2065 BS following the political changes of 2062-63 BS. Despite the system being considered the best, concerns regarding political instability and governance have led to criticism. The federal government, under Prime Minister Balen Shah, is reportedly working to embody the spirit of the 'Gen Z' movement and usher in a transformative era.

Prime Minister Balen Shah has been absent from parliamentary proceedings during the ongoing budget session, leading to intensified protests from opposition parties demanding his presence and response. Questions are also being raised regarding the Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal's role in ensuring the Prime Minister's accountability to the House. The situation has increased public frustration, with multiple parties calling for the Prime Minister's resignation.

Rastriya Swatantra Party chairperson Rabi Lamichhane is holding one-on-one consultations with party lawmakers to gather feedback and coordinate parliamentary strategy amidst growing political pressure. These internal discussions are being conducted in phases based on provinces, with recent meetings held for Koshi and Madhesh provinces.

Members of the Shram Sanskriti Party staged a protest in the House of Representatives, demanding accountability from Prime Minister Balen Shah regarding unanswered questions. The party's MPs raised placards and stood from their seats, highlighting the delay in responses from ministries held by the Prime Minister. Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal warned the protesting MPs, but they continued their demonstration.