Balendra Shah: Youth’s icon or a leader too confrontational for Nepal?

 

From a civil engineer to rapper to the mayor of Kathmandu, Balendra Shah popularly known as Balen, has now become the beacon of hope for Nepal’s youth. His blend of creativity and activism with practical expertise propelled him from the music scene to the mayor’s office to inspire a new generation in believing in change and innovation. 

When Balen won the mayoral election, many Nepalis people started believing that he could be one of their potential future prime ministers. His widespread popularity encouraged independent candidates to contest for political office. Most importantly the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) led by Rabi Lamichhane was able to secure 21 seats in the Lower House of Federal Parliament. Although this is exciting, it remains to be seen whether this kind of independent approach would work on larger and more complex challenges in national governance. 

Whether Balen deserves the attention he is getting is a matter of debate. For many, especially the youths, he signifies a shift from traditional politics. People also applaud him for focusing on vital issues such as cleanliness, taking stern action against the land grabbers, and making government meetings transparent. His effort to reshape education in government schools and effectiveness of government hospitals for the poor moved many. But, more than for any other reason, with his blend of being a civil engineer and a rapper, Balen is especially in touch with ordinary people; with his candid ideas, he has become some kind of flag of hope for the frustrated citizens. 

Not everyone, however, is convinced. Some say that his confrontational style and difficulties in working with the central government delay certain projects. Although his ideas sound fresh, many feel that they have not been put into practice as smoothly as anticipated.

So far, Mayor Balen has been bold in his action, but his tenure has been tumultuous. Some of the orders that he issued after entering office, such as infrastructure ambulance service and improving conditions in public toilets, have hit major setbacks. His efforts to internationalize festivals like Tihar and Indra Jatra during his election campaign also showed great vision, but no visible steps have been taken in this direction. Similarly, the much-publicized plan to make Kathmandu a 24-hour city and develop efficient public transport is running behind schedule, which has led many to question its viability. The way Balen handled the recent floods also left much to be desired. His leadership during the rescue operation in his city was criticized as ineffective and disorganized. 

However, probably the most urgent issue which has not seen much daylight under Balen’s stewardship is the issue of waste management. His confrontational style of tackling the entrenched system has won him allies and critics in equal measure, with public dissatisfaction palpable at times when such decisions were reached without research or public consultation. Despite these barriers, Balen’s tenure so far means a fresh approach to the leadership of Kathmandu. 

Balen’s real test as a leader will be proven if he overcomes bureaucratic and political obstacles to make his vision for Kathmandu a reality. 

During his tenure as mayor, Balen has had a number of commendable aspects that have brought in much-needed optimism for change in the capital city. He has been working diligently, as promised in his election manifesto, to bring a change in the lives of the Kathmandu residents, especially the underserved population. His most outstanding efforts toward making government schools and hospitals more effective for poor citizens have been highlighted through a focus on giving better services to those who need them most. Balen has never been hesitant to make bold decisions. He has also initiated live public meetings so that transparency can be ensured, and people get more easy access to the office of the mayor. His dedication to preserving and revitalizing Newari culture and elevating traditional festivals to new heights is truly commendable. His initiative to rename chowks and alleys with their original Newari names is especially appreciated. His commitment to transforming education in government schools is also a significant and impactful step forward. The ambulance service he established through the 102 hotline has become a lifesaver for many.

Balen took a bold step in rescuing child laborers from a Member of Parliament’s home associated with the Prime Minister’s party, an action that drew widespread praise. This move highlighted his commitment to justice, even in the face of criticism, as he openly challenged Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli for defending those involved. This act resonated deeply with the public, amplifying the admiration and growing craze around Balen.

One drawback during Balen’s tenure is that he could not coordinate with the central government. Whether this situation is due to his own attitude or the inherent corruption in the central government is unknown. But be that as it may, Balen’s stewardship has brought in a host of changes, including a new impetus on cleanliness and reclaiming government land from the clutches of powerful mafias. In so doing, he instilled a ray of hope among many Nepalis that real change is possible. Balen’s stint in office has redefined the strength of an independent candidate and the role of the mayor himself, and this sets a certain precedent for future leadership. His work has found international recognition, and constant questioning of effectiveness by the central government raised him as a voice for change and progress. Aggressive reforms seemed to have struck the right chord in the hearts of people tired of ineffective governance. 

While the wave of Balen’s gutsy position in actions has drawn a massive following, his political perspective needs to be taken up for critical scrutiny. Overwhelming, unquestioning support sometimes paves the way for authoritarianism, as was seen in Nepal’s past with King Mahendra. Once adored by the grassroots level, Mahendra eventually took on authoritarian rule. This is similar to setting a precedent where blind adoration may allow a leader, through vigorous public support, to make decisions unchecked and edge toward a more dictatorial style. It is balanced support, rooted in constructive criticism, that Nepal needs from its people in order for leaders like Balen to take the country toward accountability and a democratic way forward. 

In the good fight, while over-supporting Balen may not be healthy without considering his challenges, there is no doubt that he has truly inspired many youths. His rise is a clear symbolic statement that old monopolies and traditional ways of working can be challenged and may even be annihilated to nothing. Balen proves that educated young people and active citizens can make a difference in society.