PM and Ex-Home Minister Pushed for Balen Shah’s Arrest, CK Raut Reveals

Chairman of the Janamat Party and Member of Parliament CK Raut has shed light on a meeting convened by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal concerning the controversial statements made by Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah.

Shah had issued a threat to set Singha Durbar on fire after traffic police intercepted a KMC vehicle carrying his wife on September 3, 2023. “Nothing occurred today. However, if any of our KMC vehicles are halted by the government from tomorrow, I will ignite Singha Durbar. Remember, thief government,” Shah posted on social media.

During Kantipur TV’s ‘Fireside’ program on Monday, Chairman Raut stated that following Mayor Shah’s statement, such a meeting was convened, and the opinion of the ruling coalition was sought. The Chief of Army Staff, heads of security agencies, and chiefs of all three districts of the Kathmandu valley were present at the meeting.

Raut asserted that while both the Prime Minister and the Home Minister advocated for Shah’s arrest, he and Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba opposed such drastic measures. In a moment of tension, Prachanda reportedly questioned, “Are we thieves?” highlighting the gravity of the situation.

However, Raut emphasized the stance taken by Deuba, who stressed the importance of democratic principles amidst the discourse.  Deuba suggested that Shah be given a chance to express himself. He added that in a democracy, everyone has the right to express their opinions.

“It was at that moment I realized the distinction between democratic and left-wing ideologies,” remarked Dr. Raut during the interview.