Kathmandu: As the election date set for Falgun 21 draws closer, the residence of Kathmandu Mayor Balendra (Balen) Shah’s close aide in Jwagal has begun to draw attention as a new center of alternative political engagement.

Since Thursday morning, a series of prominent political figures have visited Mayor Shah, signaling growing interest in a possible realignment outside the traditional party structure.

Former Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) President Ravi Lamichhane, interim government minister Kulman Ghising, and several other influential leaders have held discussions with Mayor Shah. After his meeting, Dr. Bhattarai told journalists that he had encouraged emerging and alternative political forces to move forward together rather than remain fragmented. He said a strong national alternative to established parties was necessary and expressed readiness to support such an initiative.

Earlier in the week, a prolonged meeting between RSS President Ravi Lamichhane and Mayor Shah reportedly lasted around five hours. Speculation that Lamichhane proposed projecting Shah as a future prime ministerial candidate has generated discussion in political circles, though Lamichhane has dismissed such claims, saying that talks are ongoing without any concrete decisions.

Interim government minister Kulman Ghising, who is also associated with Ujjaya Party Nepal, is among those expected to engage further with Shah. Independent MP Amresh Kumar Singh and Nepali Congress leader Dr. Sunil Sharma have also met the mayor, indicating interest in a broader alternative political platform. Shah’s secretariat says discussions have been held with more than 30 new faces and activists in recent days.

Meanwhile, individuals close to Mayor Shah are understood to have registered the Desh Bikas Party with the Election Commission, with ‘Lauro’ as its election symbol. During Thursday’s interactions, Shah reportedly sought feedback on potential support if he were to formally announce a new party. According to sources, responses have largely been positive, with efforts underway to explore practical unity among alternative political forces.