Balen Set to Resign as Kathmandu Mayor Ahead of PM Candidacy

A major political transition is unfolding in Kathmandu as Mayor Balendra Shah, widely known as Balen, prepares to exit city leadership and step onto the national political stage.

Balen is set to resign from his post as mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City within the next two weeks after finalising his candidacy as the prime ministerial face of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) for the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026.

An understanding reached on Tuesday between Balen and RSP Chair Rabi Lamichhane confirms that he will contest the election under the RSP banner and lead the government if the party secures a mandate. Legal provisions require a sitting metropolitan mayor to vacate the position before assuming the premiership, making Balen’s resignation mandatory by January 20.

Despite having nearly 16 months left in his mayoral term, Balen has begun wrapping up responsibilities at the metropolis. His chief personal secretary, Bhupdev Sah, said the mayor intends to complete key pending tasks before stepping down. “There are some works left to be concluded. Considering both technical and political factors, the decision will be taken within roughly two weeks,” Sah said.

Balen’s departure from city hall is expected to significantly reshape Kathmandu’s political landscape, while his entry into national politics signals a new phase in Nepal’s evolving political dynamics.