Balen Shah holds talks with Nepali Congress leaders ahead of March 5 elections

KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah has intensified political consultations as the March 5, 2026, House of Representatives election approaches. On Wednesday evening, Shah met with key Nepali Congress leaders, including Dr. Chandra Bhandari, at the home of his advisor Kumar Ben in Kupandol.

The meeting lasted around three hours and focused on discussions about forming a coordinated political approach involving new and youth-driven forces. Bhandari, who has already declared his candidacy for the Congress presidency in the upcoming 15th general convention, participated along with Milan Pandey and Sagar Dhakal.

Sources indicate that Shah highlighted the need for uniting emerging political actors and dissatisfied leaders from mainstream parties under a common platform ahead of the elections.

This consultation with Nepali Congress leaders marks the first public step in Shah’s broader strategy to mobilize alternative political forces, signaling his active involvement in election preparations.

Follow-up discussions with other independent leaders and smaller parties are expected to continue in the coming days.