Balen Calls for Strong Provinces and Performance-Based Leadership at RSP Programme in Janakpur

Senior Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) leader Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, addressed a party programme in Janakpur today. Speaking in Maithili, he described himself as a leader of action, saying he would prove his abilities through results if given the chance.

Shah emphasized empowering provinces so citizens would no longer need to travel to Kathmandu for authority or justice, noting the capital should be a place to visit Pashupati and Swayambhunath, rather than demands. He added that provinces remain weak as long as even minor administrative decisions depend on the capital.

Referring to his tenure as Kathmandu mayor, Shah highlighted development and governance initiatives—such as free education in private schools and free treatment in well-equipped hospitals—as models to be expanded across all seven provinces and 753 local units.

He also noted Janakpur’s untapped tourism potential despite its historical and religious significance with the Ram-Janaki marriage and pledged that the RSP would protect temples, ponds, and land in Madhesh, calling for support to boost regional and national development.

Concluding, Shah urged voters to prioritize competence over identity. “Do not vote for RSP just because a Madhesi’s son may become prime minister; vote because the right person is stepping into leadership.”