Nepal votes in election pitting entrenched old guard against a powerful youth movement

"Youth-led protests under a loose gen-Z banner began as a demonstration against a brief social media ban, but were fed by wider grievances at corruption and a woeful economy. Nearly 19 million voters will choose who replaces the interim government in place since the September 2025 uprising, in which at least 77 people were killed, and parliament and scores of government buildings were torched."

"The election has seen a wave of younger candidates promising to tackle Nepal's woeful economy, challenging veteran politicians who have dominated for decades and argue that their experience guarantees stability and security. We are so hopeful, said Sashi Gurung, 33, who will vote in Kathmandu. This election is not a normal election. This is going to be one of the changing points for Nepalis, for Nepal."

Nepal is conducting a general election following unprecedented youth-led protests in September 2025 that killed at least 77 people and forced the resignation of the prime minister. Nearly 19 million voters will choose a new government to replace the interim administration. The election features a significant generational divide, with younger candidates and a rapper-turned-mayor challenging veteran politicians who have dominated for decades. The protests initially sparked over a social media ban but expanded to address widespread corruption and economic hardship. Key candidates include a 74-year-old Marxist former prime minister, the newly elected Nepali Congress leader, and younger candidates representing reform. Security is heightened with thousands of soldiers and police deployed at polling centers. The election represents a potential turning point for Nepal's political landscape.

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