Nepal Prepares for March 5 Parliamentary Elections Amid Political Shifts

Nepal is preparing for parliamentary elections on March 5, the first since deadly youth-led protests in September 2025 that toppled the previous government. Nearly 19 million voters, including about one million new young voters, will elect 275 assembly members through direct and proportional representation. Key issues include corruption, job creation, and balancing relations with India and China. Prominent contenders for prime minister include Balendra Shah, K.P. Sharma Oli, Gagan Thapa, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal. The interim government has pledged a peaceful and fair election.