KATHMANDU, Oct 30: In the wake of mounting political chatter and speculative media reports, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat has firmly denied claims that Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah (Balen) has been pressuring Prime Minister Sushila Karki to remove Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal.
A statement issued by PM Chief Secretary Adarsha Kumar Shrestha on Thursday sought to dispel what it called “misleading reports” circulating in several media outlets. “The authority to appoint or dismiss ministers rests solely with the Prime Minister. Such decisions are not influenced by any individual’s pressure,” the statement read, underscoring the government’s frustration with what it described as unsubstantiated political gossip.
Deputy Mayor Dangol raises questions about Mayor Balen's workin...
The clarification comes amid swirling rumors suggesting friction between Mayor Balen and Minister Aryal over the handling of post-Gen Z movement security issues in the capital. However, the PM Secretariat maintained that Minister Aryal continues to perform his duties “with full commitment” — focusing on maintaining law and order, boosting the morale of security forces, and ensuring a peaceful environment for the upcoming elections slated for March 5.
Calling for restraint, Shrestha urged both the public and the media “not to believe or spread baseless information” that could undermine trust in the government’s functioning.
The statement appears aimed at quelling speculation at a politically sensitive time, as the government faces mounting scrutiny over its handling of law enforcement and its ability to ensure stability ahead of the polls.
