Nepal’s ‘Super PM’ Balen Shah: One Month of Reforms and Controversies Explained

One month into office, Nepal’s “super Prime Minister” Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, is navigating a complex mix of optimism and unease. Backed by a near two-thirds majority in Parliament, he assumed office on March 27 after the March 5 elections that were driven by a strong Gen Z wave.

His rise was seen as a break from Nepal’s traditional political establishment. Young voters and reform advocates expected swift, structural changes and a new style of governance.

What reforms did the government promise in its first days?

In his very first cabinet meeting, Shah approved an ambitious 100-point governance reform agenda. The plan aimed at downsizing federal ministries, merging financially burdensome boards, and depoliticising civil servants and teachers.

It also promised citizen-centric service delivery, including passports, licences, and citizenship documents delivered through the postal system. Additional proposals included implementing the Karki Commission recommendations, reviving stalled projects, digitising investment systems, and developing a long-term energy export strategy.

Why has the first month been marred by controversy?

Despite the strong reform blueprint, the government’s first month has been turbulent. Two ministers exited the cabinet within weeks, raising concerns about judgement and internal cohesion.

Labour Minister Deepak Sah was recalled over controversy involving the appointment of his spouse to the Health Insurance Board. Home Minister Sudan Gurung resigned amid criticism over alleged links to a businessman under investigation.

"Recently, Home Minister Sudhan Gurung also resigned from the post. Within one month, two ministers have resigned from their posts. This has left the question: 'Aren't there any capable ministers who can take over the post from parliament?' This has left a question about who that capable minister is, and if there isn't, then why? Also remains unanswered," Michael Tamang, a Gen Z voter, told ANI.

How are young voters reacting to early developments?

The controversies have unsettled the very demographic that powered Shah’s rise.

“Being a youth and Gen Z, I was quite hopeful when Balen Shah became the Prime Minister, but due to recent controversies, it seems like the government hasn't been performing well, and within the formation of less than one month, two ministers from the government have resigned,” Garima Shrestha, a Gen Z voter from Gorkha, told ANI.

What legal and political issues has the government faced?

The implementation of the Karki Commission report without clear legal grounding triggered criticism early on. The arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak without proper documentation further escalated tensions, with courts ordering their release.

Nepali Congress leader Deepak Khadka was also freed after prolonged detention due to insufficient evidence, raising concerns about due process and governance standards.

Why is the Prime Minister’s silence being questioned?

Despite campaigning on transparency, Shah has maintained a notably low public profile. He has not addressed the nation or held a press conference since taking office.

His silence has drawn particular criticism in relation to allegations against his party chairman, Rabi Lamichhane, in cooperative scam cases, adding to concerns about accountability.

Are there concerns about governance style and accessibility?

Reports suggest that access to the Prime Minister’s Office has become more restricted, requiring special arrangements. Critics argue this undermines transparency and public engagement.

At the same time, the ruling party’s move to amend provisions delaying disqualification of MPs until formal indictment has been viewed by critics as a protective measure for those in power.

What policy decisions have drawn mixed reactions?

The introduction of a two-day weekend has received mixed responses, with local governments and schools struggling to adjust schedules.

Efforts to remove riverside squatters have raised human rights concerns due to the lack of clear rehabilitation plans. Meanwhile, tighter regulations along the Nepal-India border have sparked protests.

Fuel prices have also risen significantly, despite tax waivers, adding to cost-of-living pressures.

Has the government made any positive progress?

There are signs of incremental improvements. Administrative efficiency has improved in some areas, such as clearing backlogs in driving licence distribution.

"We can see the government offices are open in early hours and close late in the afternoon, so it's a positive change that we really need to acknowledge and really need to be happy about," Binayak Shumsher Thapa, a Gen Z youth from Kathmandu, told ANI.

What about employment and economic expectations?

Job creation remains a key concern, especially for young voters who expected policies to reduce outward migration.

"The government, until now, has been working quite well. As a youth myself, I have some expectations from the government - creating employment opportunities. There are a lot of youths flying abroad for employment. As the government (ruling RSP) in their manifesto had stated that they would lessen the number of youths going abroad for employment and instead create it here, until now, none of the significant steps have been taken in that area," Sadikshya Shrestha, a Gen-Z voter from Lalitpur, told ANI.

Where does the government stand after one month?

Shah’s government stands at a delicate juncture. While its reform agenda remains ambitious on paper, early credibility is being shaped by controversies, governance challenges, and unmet expectations.

A symbolic shift in diplomacy—holding collective meetings with ambassadors instead of one-on-one engagements—suggests a new approach, but the real test will be delivery.

For now, Nepal’s youthful electorate continues to watch closely, weighing promise against performance.

(With inputs from ANI)