From protests to dissolution
Mass anti-corruption demonstrations, led largely by students and young professionals, erupted in early September 2025, criticising long-standing political patronage, weak accountability and restrictions on online expression.
The unrest turned deadly, prompting the resignation of the then prime minister and, soon after, the dissolution of the House of Representatives.
President Ramchandra Paudel subsequently appointed former chief justice Sushila Karki as interim prime minister and, on the new government’s recommendation, set March 5, 2026 as the election date.
Youth expectations
With this background, the coming election is widely seen as a test of how far established parties can renew themselves and how much space newer forces and independent candidates can gain.
Key youth demands include stronger anti-corruption measures, internal democracy within parties, better job opportunities, reforms in education and digital rights, and more inclusive representation in candidate selection.
Civil society groups are urging young voters to participate in large numbers, arguing that the snap poll is an opportunity to convert street mobilisation into institutional change.