As new alliances emerge outside the traditional party spectrum, established forces are recalibrating their own cooperation strategies. Frameworks such as the Nepali Congress–led front in Madhes and the UML-centred left alliance discussed in previous elections are being revisited in light of the 2026 contest. Recent negotiations over National Assembly seat-sharing show that major parties are willing to coordinate closely in one arena while still competing sharply in the House of Representatives race.
Party insiders suggest that alliance decisions are being shaped by three main factors: perceived strength of youth-oriented challengers in urban centres, fragmentation among regional and identity-based parties, and the mechanics of translating proportional vote shares into winnable FPTP constituencies. For voters, these shifting coalitions can be confusing, as parties that are partners in one province may be rivals in another. Election observers underline the need for transparent communication so that citizens understand which parties are cooperating where, and what that means for government stability after 5 March.