Old Guard Challenges PM Shah: Khanal Demands Apology Over 'Anti-National' Remarks Days Before Election

Former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal has launched a scathing attack on current Prime Minister Balen Shah, asserting that individuals expressing "anti-national" sentiments are unfit for the premiership. Khanal explicitly demanded an apology from PM Shah, urging "patriotic people and forces" to protest until one is issued. This aggressive stance by a veteran leader from the CPN-UML against the RSP-led government escalates political tensions significantly. The confrontation, just days before the March 5 national election, underscores the deep ideological chasm between the traditional political establishment and the emerging youth-backed parties. Such direct challenges to the Prime Minister's legitimacy could destabilize governance and potentially fragment Nepal's democratic landscape post-election.

• NEWS FLASH: Jhalanath Khanal (UML) demands PM Balen Shah's apology for 'anti-national' remarks, escalating tensions days before election! #SamacharSanjal #NepalPolitics #Election2026