Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah drew sharp criticism after he briefly left the Parliament chamber on Monday, May 11, 2026, while President Ramchandra Paudel was addressing a joint session of the Federal Parliament at Singha Durbar. The session, convened by the President on the recommendation of the Council of Ministers, featured the government’s policy and programme for the 2026/27 fiscal year. Critics say the Prime Minister’s exit, and earlier actions that appeared to flout protocol, risk undermining parliamentary norms and diplomatic etiquette.
The controversy follows reports that Shah had recently declined meetings with some foreign envoys, allegedly over a perceived “stature gap,” a development that stirred concern in parts of Nepal’s media about the administration’s attitude toward established conventions and its potential diplomatic implications. Opponents and commentators contend such behaviour could erode respect for state institutions and harm strategic interests.
Prominent writer Kanak Mani Dixit criticised Shah on X, saying the Prime Minister’s conduct — including a “walkout midway through the presidential address,” distant demeanour and informal attire — signalled a lack of respect for the presidency and Parliament. Another user, Satis Devkota, wrote that while the exit might be seen as a small political gesture, it carried deeper symbolic weight about respect for democratic institutions.
The Prime Minister’s Secretariat, however, told Khabarhub that Shah briefly stepped out because of health-related discomfort during the programme. The statement said he took a short rest and later rejoined the session, and that his health was normal.
This episode is the latest in a series of criticisms aimed at Shah’s government over its handling of parliamentary processes. Opposition parties and analysts have previously accused the administration of overreliance on ordinances and of delaying full parliamentary debate, despite having strong political backing. Under Nepal’s Constitution, ordinances issued by the government must be approved by Parliament within 60 days after the House reconvenes, or they lapse automatically — a provision opponents say is being strained by frequent resort to executive measures.
During the joint sitting the government also said it would seek political consensus on proposed constitutional amendments and would prepare a discussion paper on the process in the coming fiscal year. Supporters of the government argue that procedural choices reflect political strategy, while critics warn that repeated departures from convention could weaken democratic norms and public trust in Parliament.
Original Source: https://www.firstpost.com/world/nepal-pm-balen-shahs-mid-speech-parliament-exit-protest-protocol-breach-or-political-message-14010311.html
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Publish Date: 2026-05-12 14:05:00
