Why Is Prime Minister Balen Distant Despite Being Close to Parliament?
After winning the mayoral election of Kathmandu in 2022, Balen played a significant role in igniting political interest among the youth. Former Prime Minister Prachanda advised Balen in parliament not to be overly proud of numbers but to prioritize trust and cooperation. Prime Minister Balen acknowledged that the lack of parliamentary decorum and dialogue has increased frustration among young people and emphasized that dialogue is indispensable in a democracy. Nepali politics has long alienated the youth. Corruption and deteriorating practices in politics have created a lack of entrepreneurship and employment opportunities. Consequently, the number of youths seeking work abroad has risen, while the Congress-Communist conflict since 1991/1993 has deepened intense disillusionment with politics.
This situation fostered a mindset where youth refrained from party memberships and regarded politics as a filthy game. It effectively stifled new generations from entering politics. More weeds than seedlings grew in the political nursery. The first generation, bearing the historical burden, plunged deep into power struggles. The second generation, criticizing the former, intended to weed out the old. Questions died, and revolts continuously surfaced. The third generation remained limited to the latter ranks of the second. Within this backdrop, Gen Z had to lead the rebellion. Seizing that opportunity, new party leaders crafted fresh types of political puppets. Balen became a fortunate figure of this trend.
Balen was quietly preparing behind the scenes. By becoming Kathmandu’s mayor in the 2022 elections, he ushered in an unprecedented wave. Even when saying ‘I am not interested in politics,’ young people began to deeply engage with political issues and ask questions. His contribution to moving Nepali politics forward and fostering youth optimism towards governance was considerable. In September, Nepal’s political analysis gained global media attention, adding a new dimension. The message spread worldwide that individuals from entirely unconventional backgrounds could reach the helm of power directly. This influence extended beyond Nepal. From September onwards, Nepal’s politics received extensive global media coverage. The core message was: ‘Persons from non-traditional paths can become mayors or prime ministers.’
In an era dominated by ‘strongmen’ such as Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, Narendra Modi, and Vladimir Putin, this represented a distinctly different democratic transformation. It presented Balen with the opportunity to emerge not just as an ordinary prime minister but as a leader of epochal change. However, observing his activities after taking office suggests he may be headed toward becoming a ruler proud of numbers rather than a transformative leader. Standing in parliament on Tuesday, former Prime Minister Prachanda admitted past mistakes and offered advice that appears prudent. He said, ‘Enduring defeat is difficult, but digesting victory is even harder. Do not let pride of numbers turn into arrogance; learn from us.’