A public spat has erupted between two prominent mayors as Nepal’s political crisis deepens. Dharan Mayor Harka Sampang has branded Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah a “coward” who hides during times of crisis.
Sampang declared his readiness to lead the country himself, though he acknowledged that securing military support would be challenging. His comments reflect growing tensions within the protest movement over who should assume interim leadership.
Balen Supports Karki, Advises Patience
In response, Balen Shah has endorsed Sushila Karki for the interim Prime Minister position and advised Sampang to prepare for future opportunities rather than rushing into leadership now.
Meanwhile, Balen is reportedly engaged in efforts to establish a new political party, signalling his long-term political ambitions beyond the current crisis.
The public disagreement between the two mayors highlights the fractures within Nepal’s youth-led movement, as different factions pursue competing visions for the country’s immediate and future leadership. This discord complicates ongoing negotiations at Army Headquarters, where consensus remains elusive among various protest groups and military officials.
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