Politics · Singapore Bureau
Nepal PM granted exception to wear sunglasses in Parliament chamber
Kathmandu has approved a request from Prime Minister Balen Shah to retain his trademark eyewear during parliamentary sessions, citing medical necessity. The decision marks an unusual departure from the legislature's dress code protocols.
LSN Singapore ·

Nepal's Parliament has granted Prime Minister Balen Shah an exemption to wear sunglasses during legislative proceedings, a move that sidesteps the chamber's established dress code requirements.
Shah, who rose to political prominence following a career in rap music, cited medical reasons for requiring the eyewear during parliamentary sessions. The approval was issued after the government submitted a formal request to the legislative body regarding the exception.
The decision represents a notable accommodation within Nepal's Parliament, where formal dress codes have traditionally been upheld. The allowance for Shah's signature accessory underscores the medical justification provided for the request.
As one of South Asia's younger political leaders, Shah has maintained his distinctive public image since entering electoral politics. The Parliament's decision reflects a pragmatic approach to balancing institutional protocols with individual health requirements.
The exception has drawn attention from observers tracking parliamentary procedures and conventions in Nepal, where such departures from standard protocols remain comparatively uncommon.