KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra (Balen) Shah has resigned from his post.

Balen, who entered politics through the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has resigned from the position of metropolitan mayor in order to contest the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5.

Balen is preparing to contest the election from Jhapa–5 as a prime ministerial candidate from the RSP.

He submitted his resignation on Sunday, addressing Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol.

“In reference to the present matter, in accordance with the Constitution of Nepal 2015, the Local Government Operation Act 2017, and the prevailing legal provisions of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, I hereby voluntarily submit my resignation from the post of Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, effective from the date 18/01/2026,” he stated in his resignation letter.

He further said, “While holding this position, I have tried to work as honestly as possible in the interest of Kathmandu Metropolitan City and its residents. Wishing that in the days ahead the leadership, service delivery, and development journey of the metropolitan city become more effective, transparent, and results-oriented, I extend my best wishes to you and the municipal executive.”