Nepal’s March 5 vote: Waves, coalitions, and the new guard on the cards

2026-03-03 - 16:43

Veterans such as Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda and K.P. Sharma Oli face tough contest in the first election since the 2025 Gen Z protests. Rastriya Swatantra Party holds an edge and its leader Balendra Shah, 35, remains a hugely popular figure. The youth vote is likely to play a decisive role amid a strong anti-incumbency sentiment.