KATHMANDU: The House of Representatives election held on March 5 has reshaped Nepal’s political landscape, with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) emerging as a major force after securing stronger-than-expected public support.
The party has now entered a decisive phase of government formation. In a significant development, RSP has decided to propose Balen Shah, the popular former mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, as its candidate for prime minister.
If the party stands firm on its decision, Nepal could soon see a new and relatively young leadership at the helm of the government.
The shift represents more than a change in leadership. It reflects growing public trust in new political alternatives over traditional party structures.
However, the anticipated government will face serious and complex challenges from the outset—testing the leadership capacity of Shah early in his tenure.
One of the most pressing concerns is the escalating conflict in West Asia. Around 1.729 million Nepali workers are employed in Gulf countries, contributing significantly to Nepal’s economy through remittances. As tensions rise in the region, the safety of Nepali migrant workers has become a growing concern.
If the conflict intensifies, thousands of Nepalis could lose their jobs and be forced to return home. Such a scenario could create additional pressure on the domestic economy, increasing unemployment and posing challenges for social and economic management.
According to government data, around 6,000 Nepalis have already applied at Nepali embassies seeking assistance to return home.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said the situation so far presents mixed signals. A Nepali from Gorkha has reportedly died in Dubai, while most other Nepalis remain safe.
Some Nepali workers injured in drone attacks have recovered after receiving medical treatment, according to the concerned embassies. However, risks remain high as the conflict continues to escalate.
In response, the government has formed an emergency rescue team to monitor the situation and coordinate potential evacuation efforts. The team has been tasked with collecting information on Nepalis in affected areas and facilitating rescue operations if necessary.
While the move suggests the government is alert to the crisis, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be tested.
Particular concern has been raised about Nepali workers stationed at the Ras Laffan gas facility in Qatar. Security alert levels in the area have increased following attacks attributed to Iran.
Workers have reportedly been relocated to safer areas, but uncertainty continues to affect both their mental wellbeing and working conditions.
Meanwhile, drone attacks reported in Saudi Arabia and Dubai have heightened insecurity among Nepali migrant workers across the Gulf region. Reports indicate that around 6,000 Nepalis have already sought assistance to return home.
In such a situation, their evacuation, management, and reintegration could become a major test for the incoming government.
Authorities have said necessary procedures have been initiated for those wishing to return from the Gulf. Nepali embassies in the region have been placed on high alert.
The government has also urged Nepali nationals in affected countries to remain cautious, follow local regulations, and stay in regular contact with the respective embassies.
However, the challenge goes beyond rescue operations. If a large number of workers return home, the government will face the critical task of ensuring employment opportunities, reintegration, and economic stability.
This raises questions about long-term policy planning and the state’s capacity to implement effective solutions.
Amid these uncertainties, attention has turned to how Shah’s leadership would handle such a complex national and international crisis.
During his tenure at Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Shah has drawn attention for his administrative style, decision-making and public engagement. Yet managing national-level crises is far more complex than governing at the municipal level.
The current moment is therefore not only about celebrating the formation of a new government, but also about assuming responsibility.
How the new leadership translates public trust into action may ultimately shape its political future.
If the incoming administration led by Shah can successfully navigate the West Asia crisis, it could significantly strengthen its credibility. Otherwise, the same challenge could raise difficult questions about its leadership at the very beginning.
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