Nepal Votes in High-Stakes General Election After Gen Z Protests
Nepal began voting at 7:00 am on Thursday in a crucial General Election 2026. The vote comes months after deadly anti-corruption protests toppled the government. During the September 2025 uprising, at least 77 people lost their lives. Moreover, protesters set fire to parliament and several public buildings. As a result, the country installed an interim administration. Now, nearly 19 million voters will choose a new parliament. Therefore, many citizens describe this election as a historic turning point for the Himalayan nation of 30 million people.
How Nepal’s Electoral System Functions
Nepal follows a mixed electoral model to elect its 275-member House of Representatives. On election day, voters cast two ballots. First, they select a local candidate under the first-past-the-post system. Second, they vote for a political party under proportional representation. Consequently, direct contests fill 165 seats across seven provinces. Meanwhile, parties receive 110 seats based on their total vote share. In addition, more than 3,400 candidates are competing nationwide. Polling will close at 5:00 pm; however, counting may take several days due to difficult terrain.
Oli, Balendra Shah and Gagan Thapa in Key Battle
The contest highlights a sharp generational divide. Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, 74, is seeking a return to power. However, he faces a tough challenge from Balendra Shah, the 35-year-old rapper-turned-mayor. Shah represents the Rastriya Swatantra Party and strongly appeals to younger voters. Meanwhile, Gagan Thapa, the new leader of the Nepali Congress, has also entered the prime ministerial race. Therefore, the election has turned into a contest between seasoned politicians and reform-driven youth leaders.
Security Tightened; Coalition Likely
Security forces are guarding polling stations across the country. In remote mountain regions near Mount Everest, authorities used helicopters to transport voting materials. Meanwhile, intense battles are unfolding in the southern plains and eastern districts such as Jhapa. Analysts expect a divided mandate. As a result, no single party may secure a clear majority. Therefore, coalition negotiations could begin soon after officials announce the final results.ials to remote mountain areas near Mount Everest. Key battles are unfolding in the southern plains as well as eastern districts like Jhapa. Analysts expect a fractured verdict. No single party may secure a majority. Coalition talks could follow once officials announce the final results.
