Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, has voiced support for appointing former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as the head of Nepal’s interim government. Amid nationwide protests against corruption, Shah appealed to Gen-Z demonstrators and the public to remain calm and patient as the country navigates a critical political transition.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Shah described Nepal as being in an “unprecedented moment” and urged citizens to show responsibility.
“I fully support your proposal to lead this interim/electoral government by former Chief Justice Sushila Karki. I would like to sincerely respect your understanding, wisdom, and unity. This shows how mature you are,” Shah wrote.
He emphasized that the interim government’s role would be to organize fresh elections and restore stability, cautioning people not to panic during the transition. Shah also urged ambitious individuals seeking leadership roles to wait for elections rather than pursue temporary influence.
In a direct appeal, Shah called on the President of Nepal to dissolve parliament and swiftly form an interim administration to protect what he termed a “historic revolution led by Gen-Z.”
The remarks come amid heightened unrest that began on September 8, 2025, after the government imposed a controversial ban on major social media platforms, citing cybersecurity and tax concerns. The move triggered widespread demonstrations in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Butwal, Birgunj, and other cities, leaving 30 people dead and over 500 injured in clashes with security forces. Curfews remain in place in several regions.
The Gen-Z-led protests have called for an end to institutionalised corruption, nepotism, and lack of accountability. Anger has been further fueled by the viral “Nepo Babies” trend on social media, spotlighting the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children in stark contrast to everyday citizens.
Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, Nepal’s first female Chief Justice (July 2016–June 2017), has emerged as a widely supported candidate to head the interim government.