Gagan Thapa criticizes Balen Shah’s economic approach, confirms Congress convention schedule

Kathmandu, September 11, 2026 — Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa has criticized Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s approach to the private sector, arguing that the government lacks a positive outlook toward business and the broader economy.

Speaking at an event organized by the Girija Prasad Koirala Foundation on Friday, Thapa said that although the Prime Minister has shown goodwill toward state-owned enterprises such as Hetauda Textile and Nepal Pharmaceuticals, he has not demonstrated a sufficient understanding of how the economy functions in practice.

Thapa highlighted the economic liberalization initiatives led by former Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala after 1990, emphasizing the importance of a clear economic vision as Nepal works toward reconstruction following recent disasters.

He argued that economic policy and private-sector engagement will be important to the country's recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Thapa also said the Nepali Congress General Convention would be held on schedule, seeking to dispel uncertainty surrounding the party's upcoming organizational process.

He added that the party would launch a nationwide campaign covering all 77 districts after Dashain, with the objective of rebuilding public trust and strengthening its connection with citizens.