Nepal Prepares for March 5 Parliamentary Elections Amid Post-Protest Transition

Nepal is preparing for parliamentary elections on March 5, the first since deadly youth-led anti-corruption protests in September 2025 that toppled the previous government and resulted in 77 deaths. Nearly 19 million voters, including around one million new young voters, will elect 275 assembly members through direct and proportional representation. Key election issues include corruption, job creation, and foreign relations with India and China. Major contenders include Balendra Shah, K.P. Sharma Oli, Gagan Thapa, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal. The interim government and election commission emphasize conducting peaceful and fair polls with international support.