Nepal is voting in a pivotal national election, the first since the September 2025 Gen Z protest movement that forced the resignation of former prime minister K.P. Sharma Oli.
The vote reflects widespread public frustration over corruption, economic stagnation and political instability. Many voters say the result will determine whether young Nepalis see a future at home or continue migrating abroad for work.
A central figure in the race is Balendra “Balen” Shah, the former mayor of Kathmandu. The 35-year-old rapper-turned-politician has emerged as a leading anti-establishment voice, campaigning against traditional parties and promising political reform.
Key developments:
• 275 parliamentary seats contested: 165 elected directly, the rest via proportional representation.
• 65 political parties competing, with about 160 Gen Z candidates nationwide.
• Around 335,000 security personnel deployed to secure polling.
• Roughly 10% of Nepal’s population lives abroad, many unable to vote.
Despite strong turnout expectations, analysts say the result is likely to produce another coalition government.
ℹ️ nytimes
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