Nepali aspirants officially commenced their electoral campaigns yesterday in preparation for the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for next month. This marks the first election after the 2025 anti-corruption uprisings that led to the downfall of the previous government.
Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki emphasized the significance of the upcoming election, stating that it will shape the future of the country. The protests, primarily driven by the younger generation, were initially sparked by a temporary social media blackout but were further fueled by discontent over economic stagnation and a disconnect with the older ruling class. Over 3,400 candidates are vying for direct votes, with 30 percent falling under the age of 40.
The campaign period, spanning two weeks, will witness a wave of fresh, youthful candidates promising transformative changes as they challenge established politicians. Notable among the election showdowns is the face-off between rapper-turned-mayor Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, aged 35, against Oli in the constituency of the former prime minister. Balen, representing the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has become a prominent figure symbolizing the surge of youth-driven political movements.