Prime Minister Shah’s Satirical Post on Ambassadorial Appointment Draws Attention
Kathmandu. Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s satirical social media post saying that he, too, wants to become an ambassador has drawn public attention.
On Saturday evening, Prime Minister Shah wrote in Roman Nepali on his official Facebook account: “Malai pani ambassador banna man chha, PM ko number chha bhane yaso dinus na?” The post, which roughly means, “I also want to become an ambassador; if you have the PM’s number, please share it with me,” quickly drew various reactions on social media.
Prime Minister Shah has not clearly stated the direct context of the post. However, after reports surfaced that Krishna Hari Pushkar, Secretary at the Office of the Vice President, had sent a message to Prime Minister Shah seeking support for an ambassadorial appointment, many interpreted Shah’s post as a satire aimed at that incident.
Education Minister Sasmit Pokharel commented on the post, writing, “Message gardim?” meaning, “Shall I send a message?” Similarly, Victor Poudel added a sarcastic response, saying, “Nai feri uthauna aaula police,” meaning, “No, the police may come to pick us up again.”
The post and the comments that followed have generated wide discussion on social media. Some users have viewed the post as a new way for a public office holder to express dissatisfaction, while others have argued that such sarcastic remarks from the head of government do not match the responsibility and dignity of the office.
Issues related to ambassadorial appointments, senior administrative positions, chief secretary selection and political access are considered sensitive. As a result, informal communication between senior officials and political leadership, and the public reaction to it, have triggered debate in administrative and political circles.
Prime Minister Shah’s latest post has brought renewed attention to questions of transparency in ambassadorial appointments, administrative discipline and the use of social media by public office holders.
