KATHMANDU: A political deadlock unfolded in Kathmandu Metropolitan City as employees and ward chairpersons defied Mayor Balen Shah’s attempts to prevent Chief Administrative Officer Saroj Guragain from resuming his role.

Despite intervention by city police, they successfully escorted him into the office.

Mayor Shah had deployed municipal police, led by Rajunath Pandey, to block Guragain’s entry. However, employees and ward officials, who had been advocating for his return for months, managed to bring him inside.

Guragain’s return follows nearly three months of absence, though his office remains locked, casting doubt on his ability to fully resume duties.

Tensions between the city’s leadership and administrative staff have been rising, with employees voicing frustrations over salary delays and operational disruptions.

Additionally, some ward chairpersons criticized the city police for following the mayor’s direct orders instead of working under elected representatives.