Prime Minister Balen Shah’s trip sparks press freedom and security concerns

Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s recent private trip to Mustang and Pokhara has drawn scrutiny regarding security protocols and press freedom. During the visit, security personnel allegedly instructed journalist Suresh Sunar to delete video footage of the Prime Minister’s movements in a public area, citing concerns over the privacy of the Prime Minister’s family. The Federation of Nepali Journalists described the incident as a serious interference with press freedom, arguing that public officials remain subject to media scrutiny when in publicly accessible venues.

The trip also raised questions about administrative coordination. While the Prime Minister’s security was managed by the Nepal Army, district administrations in Kaski, Baglung, Myagdi, and Mustang reported they were not informed or involved in the usual manner. Additionally, the Prime Minister avoided interaction with a local women’s group in Jomsom that had gathered to welcome him, opting instead to enter his hotel through a back door.